Synonym Chooser

How does the adjective aromatic contrast with its synonyms?

Some common synonyms of aromatic are fragrant, odorous, and redolent. While all these words mean "emitting and diffusing scent," aromatic applies to things emitting pungent often fresh odors.

an aromatic blend of tobaccos

When might fragrant be a better fit than aromatic?

The meanings of fragrant and aromatic largely overlap; however, fragrant applies to things (such as flowers or spices) with sweet or agreeable odors.

a fragrant rose

When is odorous a more appropriate choice than aromatic?

The synonyms odorous and aromatic are sometimes interchangeable, but odorous applies to whatever has a strong distinctive smell whether pleasant or unpleasant.

odorous cheeses should be tightly wrapped

When is it sensible to use redolent instead of aromatic?

While the synonyms redolent and aromatic are close in meaning, redolent applies usually to a place or thing impregnated with odors.

the kitchen was redolent of garlic and tomatoes

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 aromatic At room temperature, limes are more aromatic, brighter in flavor, and easier to squeeze. Katie Rosenhouse, Southern Living, 21 Sep. 2025 The most famous wine was Malvasia, a sweet, aromatic wine from Greece and the islands of the Aegean with a multitude of genetic and other variations today. Layne Randolph, Forbes.com, 17 Sep. 2025 Fresh rosemary infuses the dish with a delicate, aromatic note. Linda Gassenheimer, Boston Herald, 17 Sep. 2025 But not long after poly aromatic hydrocarbons, commonly known as lampblack, were found in the soil. Lou Ponsi, Oc Register, 16 Sep. 2025 See All Example Sentences for aromatic
Recent Examples of Synonyms for aromatic
Adjective
  • Cook, stirring constantly, until cornbread stuffing mixture is toasted and fragrant, 1 to 2 minutes.
    Catherine Jessee, Southern Living, 29 Sep. 2025
  • Check out the fragrant Kelleher Rose Garden and the rambling Fenway Victory Gardens, originally planted by citizens in 1941 as a source of food during World War II.
    Kori Perten, AFAR Media, 24 Sep. 2025
Adjective
  • 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
  • The center employs a physician and a nurse practitioner who monitor women’s hormone levels, offers $2,000-a-session facial laser rejuvenation treatments, and a gym stocked with Rogue barbells and eucalyptus-scented towels.
    Anne Marie Chaker, Time, 20 Sep. 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Aromatic.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/aromatic. Accessed 1 Oct. 2025.

More from Merriam-Webster on aromatic

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