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

The thin-skinned fruit can absorb odors from nearby aromatic fridge-mates, so try to keep them away from ramps, onions, leeks, cut garlic, or strong-smelling leftovers. — Karla Walsh, Better Homes & Gardens, 11 Sep. 2026

Jasmine and peppermint add an aromatic lift, keeping the richer notes from overwhelming the grapefruit. — Conçetta Ciarlo, Vogue, 3 Sep. 2026

For an aromatic variation, add a few sprigs of rosemary or thyme, a bay leaf, black peppercorns, or crushed red pepper flakes before the pan goes into the oven (see Herby Garlic Confit). — Jeremy Fox, Bon Appetit Magazine, 28 Aug. 2026

Citruses, like bergamot and orange rind, give vanilla a bright and airy lightness, whereas aromatic notes, like lavender and geranium, smell like a garden growing around vanilla orchid vines. — Ariel Wodarcyk, InStyle, 25 Aug. 2026