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

After designing Bessette-Kennedy’s dress, Rodriguez launched his own label and a fragrance line, and has continued to create designs that are woven into the fabric of American history — Michelle Obama wore his dress on election night in 2008. —Los Angeles Times, 6 Mar. 2026

As a bonus, the fragrance of these hand-sanitizing mists is great, with scents like watermelon, mint, and lemon-lime. —Terri Peters, Parents, 6 Mar. 2026

Each Fischersund fragrance takes a cue from Iceland. —Jennifer Weil, Footwear News, 6 Mar. 2026

These fragrant perennials are at home in a cottage garden, garden border, along walkways, and in a butterfly garden, where their sweet fragrance attracts hummingbirds and butterflies. —Lynn McAlpine, Better Homes & Gardens, 5 Mar. 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