Synonyms of aromatic

aromatic

adjective

ˌa-rə-ˈma-tik 

as in fragrant

having a pleasant smell

aromatic flowers can add greatly to the ambience of a room

Synonyms & Similar Words

• fragrant
• scented
• spicy
• perfumed
• sweet
• redolent
• savory
• ambrosial
• fresh
• pungent
• odorous
• odoriferous
• flowery
• odiferous
• fruity
• pure
• odored
• clean

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

• strong
• malodorous
• smelly
• stinky
• putrid
• fetid
• noisome
• rancid
• stinking
• foul
• rank
• reeking
• odorless
• skunky
• unscented
• reeky
• musty
• stale
• stenchy
• fusty
• stenchful
• gamy

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

Recent Examples of aromatic

Good news—the scent inside is equally exciting, a woody, aromatic fragrance with top notes of spicy ginger balanced by juicy mandarin orange and crisp pear. — Kara Nesvig, Allure, 12 Aug. 2026

Xavier agrees and says that today’s fruity fragrances are often balanced with florals, cedar, cardamom, woods, musks, or aromatic notes to create depth and elegance. — Alanna Martine Kilkeary, Glamour, 5 Aug. 2026

Above all, frankincense stands out as the star note, curling around aromatic baking spices. — Jenny Berg, Vogue, 4 Aug. 2026

Just pit and slice the aromatic stone fruit, then toss it with a bit of sugar and flour before piling it into a baking dish. — Martha Stewart, 3 Aug. 2026