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

The Minimalist Perfecting Complexion Foundation Stick All of Stewart’s fragrance and makeup go-tos are covetable, but Merit’s the Complexion Stick is arguably the best bang for your buck since it can be used as a foundation, concealer, contour, and/or highlight, according to user preference. —Tamim Alnuweiri, InStyle, 27 Feb. 2026

The immersive display at the Silos includes a bespoke soundtrack and the fragrance Bois d’Encens, guiding visitors through a sensory journey centered on light as a metaphor for creativity and timeless elegance. —Photovogue, Vogue, 27 Feb. 2026

This fragrance is the essence of tranquility, designed to wrap your space in a cozy, comforting glow and invite a sense of peace into your daily rituals. —Tory Johnson, ABC News, 27 Feb. 2026

The Bath & Body Works Peeps collection will have all of our favorite formulas, including body cream, body wash, fragrance mist, shapeable soap, lip gloss, hand soap, PocketBac hand sanitizer, and, of course, a single-wick candle. —Jessie Quinn, StyleCaster, 27 Feb. 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