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

Choose from a cliffside breakfast corner, a shaded patio, or a fragrant garden that includes herb bushes and citrus trees. — Monica Mendal, Vogue, 10 Aug. 2026

The streets are lined with fresh fish laid out on beds of ice and barrels filled with fragrant spices sold at a quarter of the price found in the Grand Bazaar. — Cnt Editors, Condé Nast Traveler, 9 Aug. 2026

Cook over medium, stirring constantly, until mixture is darkened and fragrant, 1 to 2 minutes. — Marianne Williams, Southern Living, 8 Aug. 2026

In the fourth century, Oribasius, the Roman emperor Julian the Apostate’s personal physician, in a set of guidelines for prenatal care, recommended long walks, fragrant white wine, and, occasionally, mustard. — The New Yorker, New Yorker, 7 Aug. 2026

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