fragrant

adjective

fra·​grant ˈfrā-grənt 

: having a sweet or pleasant smell

fragrantly adverb

Synonyms

• 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

The suite’s 11,000 square feet of outdoor space include a private garden with a plunge pool shaded by fragrant lemon and olive trees–a prime perch for soaking up the island’s spectacular sunsets. —Alexandra Kirkman, Forbes.com, 1 Aug. 2025

But inside is an oasis of fragrant spices and a restful decor. —The Denver Post, Denver Post, 1 Aug. 2025

Make sure to upgrade to the yellow rice, sweetly fragrant with coconut milk and turmeric. —Matthew Odam, Austin American Statesman, 30 July 2025

However, an eau de parfum lasts for a shorter amount of time than a perfume because perfume has the highest concentration of fragrant oils. —Bestreviews, Chicago Tribune, 29 July 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