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

Sendala’s specializes in fragrances for the bath and home. —Lisa Cericola, Southern Living, 7 Sep. 2025

Lilial is the common name for butylphenyl methylpropional, a synthetic fragrance component that gives off the scent of lily of the valley flowers. —Keyaira Boone, Essence, 5 Sep. 2025

Armani was also among the first to understand the importance of licensing details in such key categories as his booming beauty and fragrance division, and forged a formidable partnership with L’Oréal. —Luisa Zargani, Footwear News, 4 Sep. 2025

The process, called phototoxicity, happens when light-reactive chemicals from fragrances and other substances sit on the skin and are exposed to sunlight. —Leslie Baumann, Miami Herald, 4 Sep. 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