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

• scent
• aroma
• perfume

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

To finish, Giannetos spritzed Moore’s hair with the Parfums de Marly Valaya Hair Mist, a delicate fragrance with notes of bergamot, mandarin, and white peach. —Anna Cafolla, Vogue, 19 Oct. 2025

It’s infused with notes of fir needle, pinesap, herb, and holly for a rich fragrance that feels like a cold day in late fall when winter weather is just around the corner. —Caley Sturgill, Southern Living, 19 Oct. 2025

Less than a year later, Puig—the Spanish conglomerate that owns Dries Van Noten, Christian Louboutin, and the fragrance house Byredo—purchased a majority stake in a deal that reportedly valued Sturm’s company at $400 million. —Justin Fenner, Robb Report, 18 Oct. 2025

In a striking first for the country, Giorgio Armani has taken over the façade of one of India’s leading premium malls — Phoenix Palladium in Mumbai — with a vibrant, immersive installation promoting its fragrance and beauty lines. —Mayu Saini, Footwear News, 18 Oct. 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