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

• aroma
• attar
• otto
• balm
• bouquet
• fragrancy
• incense
• perfume
• redolence
• scent
• spice

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

The Knowles-Carter’s fragrance Cé Lumière will be sold at select Ulta Beauty stores and on the cosmetic retailer’s official website, marking its first availability beyond Knowles-Carter’s official website. —Julia Teti, Footwear News, 24 Apr. 2025

Each flower also features a striking scent of citrus and honeysuckle, guaranteed to grace both your home and garden with its sweet fragrance. —Sophia Beams, Better Homes & Gardens, 24 Apr. 2025

It's also released two new fine fragrances, Cherry Spritz and Watermelon Freeze, in recent months. —Skyler Caruso, People.com, 23 Apr. 2025

The fine fragrance came about after years of brand loyalists requesting it, even selling out at Sephora within 24 hours of its launch. —Jenny Berg, Allure, 20 Apr. 2025

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