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

Another favorite of mine is the Tubereuse scent, which is an enchanting floral fragrance that instantly transports me to greener pastures. —Alexandra Ditch, Vogue, 7 Dec. 2025

Just clip fresh sprigs and scatter them over tables or tuck them into a vase with other plants for extra fragrance and color. —Lauren Landers, Better Homes & Gardens, 6 Dec. 2025

The blooms have a strong lemon verbena, bergamot and honeysuckle fragrance. —Rita Perwich, San Diego Union-Tribune, 6 Dec. 2025

Among the best sellers is Amber & Moss, a musky fragrance that’s like a hit of damp, sunlit earth on a mountain trail. —Jenny Berg, Allure, 5 Dec. 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