fragrance

noun

fra·​grance ˈfrā-grən(t)s 

1

a

: a sweet or delicate odor (as of fresh flowers, pine trees, or perfume)

b

: something (such as a perfume) compounded to give off a sweet or pleasant odor

2

: the quality or state of having a sweet odor

Synonyms of fragrance

• scent
• aroma
• perfume
• fragrancy

Choose the Right Synonym for fragrance

fragrance, perfume, scent, redolence mean a sweet or pleasant odor.

fragrance suggests the odors of flowers or other growing things.

the fragrance of pine

perfume may suggest a stronger or heavier odor.

the perfume of lilacs

scent is very close to perfume but of wider application because more neutral in connotation.

scent-free soaps

redolence implies a mixture of fragrant or pungent odors.

the redolence of a forest after a rain

Examples of fragrance in a Sentence

a flower with a lovely fragrance

the fragrance of lilac trees in full bloom

Recent Examples on the Web

One California law firm says yes, and has filed a barrage of lawsuits this year, targeting hotels in California and elsewhere over synthetic fragrances in common areas. — Christopher Reynolds, Los Angeles Times, 3 Oct. 2026

Every Time Best known for its Milk fragrance collection, DedCool has earned a following for its easy-to-wear scents. — Vivien Lee, InStyle, 3 Oct. 2026

Erin Kleinberg, founder of body and fragrance brand Sidia and co-founder of creative agency Métier, built her brand with that discipline in mind. — Rhea Cartwright, Vogue, 2 Oct. 2026

With elevated blends like Sacred Santal, Naked Neroli, and Bergamot Bond, these sophisticated scents smell more like a luxury fragrance than your average deodorant. — Glamour, 2 Oct. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1667, in the meaning defined at sense 1a

Kids Definition

fragrance

noun

fra·​grance ˈfrā-grən(t)s 

: a sweet, pleasant, and often flowery or fruity smell