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

Beyond those fragrant fillings was a rich history of the monastery dating back to the 10th century. —Marlise Kast-Myers, Boston Herald, 12 Apr. 2026

Choose fragrant Ruby Red grapefruits that feel heavy for their size; before juicing, roll them firmly on the counter to break up the juice sacs inside. —Martha Stewart, 10 Apr. 2026

Tuck in Herbs Add creeping thyme between stepping stones for a fragrant ground cover. —Megan Hughes, Better Homes & Gardens, 10 Apr. 2026

Thick evergreen foliage and fragrant pink blooms provide beauty throughout the seasons. —Kim Toscano, Southern Living, 9 Apr. 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