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 for approximately 2-3 minutes, stirring frequently, until the onion becomes translucent and the garlic is fragrant. — ABC News, 24 Aug. 2026

So light, given the heft of the bundle, and flaky, and fragrant with the specific richness of lard. — Andrew J. Campa, Los Angeles Times, 23 Aug. 2026

The display is unforgettable and, for a bonus, flowers are fragrant, especially at night, so as to attract pollinating hawk moths. — Joshua Siskin, Oc Register, 21 Aug. 2026

Phenomenal™ lavender thrives where other lavender plants fail – tolerating humidity, heat, and even clay soil, all while producing mounds of fragrant foliage and dazzling blooms. — Kim Toscano, Southern Living, 20 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