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

Cook, stirring and swirling constantly, until garlic is tender and fragrant, about 7 minutes. —Katlyn Moncada, Better Homes & Gardens, 25 Nov. 2025

Homes that smell a bit stale or even overly fragrant don't set the tone for a welcoming stay. —Tessa Cooper, Southern Living, 25 Nov. 2025

Toast, stirring frequently, until the spices are fragrant, 2 to 3 minutes. —CBS News, 21 Nov. 2025

Other natural ideas include tying bundles of cinnamon sticks together with twine for a fragrant decoration and using small wooden ornaments, wood slices, or a wooden star topper to add a rustic charm. —Kirby Adams, Louisville Courier Journal, 17 Nov. 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