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 all, who wants the smell of their morning coffee mingling with a mystery fragrance wafting from the kitchen sink? —Patricia Shannon, Southern Living, 2 Nov. 2025

To properly balance the fragrance, opt for a smaller diffuser in smaller rooms to avoid overpowering the space. —Patricia Shannon, Better Homes & Gardens, 1 Nov. 2025

The band has an album in the works that is presumably not about any other pop star fragrance brands. —Larisha Paul, Rolling Stone, 31 Oct. 2025

In 2024, almost 3 billion euros’ worth of products were exported to the country, half of which were fragrances. —Jennifer Weil, Footwear News, 31 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