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
• savoury
• redolent
• savory
• ambrosial
• fresh
• pungent
• odorous
• odoriferous
• flowery
• odiferous
• pure
• fruity
• 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
• gamey

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

To turn those aromatic alliums into a sauce, simply add umami-rich tomato paste, spice things up with a splash of hot sauce and a handful of seasonings, add mustard, vinegar, and sugar for balance, and blend it all up with some broth. —Karla Walsh, Better Homes & Gardens, 7 Aug. 2025

On the other hand, hot coffee tends to be more bitter and aromatic. —Bestreviews, Mercury News, 6 Aug. 2025

This dish is a study in simplicity, featuring a chicken (white or/or dark, your choice) that’s been poached in an aromatic stock, resulting in tender, perfumed meat. —Carolyn Burt, Oc Register, 5 Aug. 2025

Hyderabadi dishes include aromatic spices, marinated meats and slow-cooking techniques. —Ella Gonzales, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 1 Aug. 2025