fragrant

adjective

fra·​grant ˈfrā-grənt 

: having a sweet or pleasant smell

fragrantly adverb

Synonyms of fragrant

• aromatic
• scented

Choose the Right Synonym for fragrant

odorous, fragrant, redolent, aromatic mean emitting and diffusing scent.

odorous applies to whatever has a strong distinctive smell whether pleasant or unpleasant.

odorous cheeses should be tightly wrapped

fragrant applies to things (such as flowers or spices) with sweet or agreeable odors.

a fragrant rose

redolent applies usually to a place or thing impregnated with odors.

the kitchen was redolent of garlic and tomatoes

aromatic applies to things emitting pungent often fresh odors.

an aromatic blend of tobaccos

Examples of fragrant in a Sentence

The soup was fragrant with herbs and spices.

the balsam fir is a favorite as a Christmas tree because it is so fragrant

Recent Examples on the Web

Look for her popular chicken tikka masala, secret-recipe samosas and fragrant cups of chai to make their debut soon along Sunnyvale’s historic restaurant row, Murphy Avenue. —Linda Zavoral, Mercury News, 7 Jan. 2026

Also known as Eranthis hyemalis, this fragrant buttercup-like flower provides an early source of nectar for pollinators, a sign to all that spring is coming. —Quincy Bulin, Southern Living, 3 Jan. 2026

These trees have dark green leaves and fragrant white flowers, and are an attractive, nearly thornless way to beautify your home. —Sj McShane, Martha Stewart, 2 Jan. 2026

Add the garlic and cook, stirring occasionally, until very fragrant and starting to brown, about 2 minutes. —The Washington Post, San Diego Union-Tribune, 31 Dec. 2025

Word History

Etymology

Middle English, from Latin fragrant-, fragrans, from present participle of fragrare to be fragrant

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for fragrant

• flagrant
• vagrant

Kids Definition

fragrant

adjective

fra·​grant ˈfrā-grənt 

: having a sweet or agreeable smell

fragrantly adverb