as in scent
a sweet or pleasant smell the fragrance of lilac trees in full bloom

Synonyms & Similar Words

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Antonyms & Near Antonyms

Synonym Chooser

How does the noun fragrance differ from other similar words?

Some common synonyms of fragrance are perfume, redolence, and scent. While all these words mean "a sweet or pleasant odor," fragrance suggests the odors of flowers or other growing things.

the fragrance of pine

When can perfume be used instead of fragrance?

While the synonyms perfume and fragrance are close in meaning, perfume may suggest a stronger or heavier odor.

the perfume of lilacs

When might redolence be a better fit than fragrance?

The synonyms redolence and fragrance are sometimes interchangeable, but redolence implies a mixture of fragrant or pungent odors.

the redolence of a forest after a rain

How do scent and perfume relate to one another, in the sense of fragrance?

Scent is very close to perfume but of wider application because more neutral in connotation.

scent-free soaps

Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of fragrance The best hostesses go a step further and introduce some kind of fragrance, whether that be a scented candle, cookies in the oven, or spices simmering on the stove. Quincy Bulin, Southern Living, 24 Sep. 2025 Each long-lasting blend adds luxury and bold aroma to clothes, bedding and more, making high-end fragrance accessible to everyone. Adam Mills, MSNBC Newsweek, 24 Sep. 2025 Our goal is to help people discover a further exploration of self through fragrance. Kayla Greaves, Essence, 24 Sep. 2025 Tajín’s partnership closely followed another first for the brand—the successful launch of its fine fragrance, Rare. Dahvi Shira, Forbes.com, 17 Sep. 2025 See All Example Sentences for fragrance
Recent Examples of Synonyms for fragrance
Noun
  • For Amarteifio, scent has always been deeply tied to memory.
    Lizzie Hyman, PEOPLE, 22 Sep. 2025
  • Natural Rat Repellent Methods Rats are known to have a strong sense of smell, so many effective methods involve scents that keep them at bay.
    Mary Cornetta, Better Homes & Gardens, 22 Sep. 2025
Noun
  • The sugary aroma wafts down Main Street, where artisans continue the century-old tradition of pouring, paddling, and slicing molten fudge into glossy, irresistible bricks.
    Christine Chitnis, Vogue, 24 Sep. 2025
  • The opening layers vanilla and honey into a faintly sweet and almost liquor-like aroma.
    Michael Stefanov, Robb Report, 23 Sep. 2025
Noun
  • Designer Jeanne Lanvin’s vanity case, vintage perfume bottles and a personalized trunk created for couturier Paul Poiret are among the treasures displayed across eight rooms.
    Joelle Diderich, Footwear News, 25 Sep. 2025
  • It is sometimes referred to as frangipani in honor of a 16th-century Italian family by that name who manufactured a perfume with a scent resembling that of plumeria blossoms.
    Joshua Siskin, Oc Register, 20 Sep. 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Fragrance.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/fragrance. Accessed 27 Sep. 2025.

More from Merriam-Webster on fragrance

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