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

Lazarou’s moussaka, made with shrimp instead of the traditional lamb, was light and aromatic; a risotto of brown orzo with Greek cheese, chili pepper, and wine from the nearby island of Lemnos was somehow both wholesome and indulgent. —Travel + Leisure Editors, Travel + Leisure, 16 Apr. 2025

This resinous fragrance blends French lavender with the aromatic warmth of earthy myrrh. —Conçetta Ciarlo, Vogue, 28 Apr. 2025

Choose from African, Mexican, or French forms to enjoy bright, warm red, oranges, or yellows with aromatic foliage. —Mary Marlowe Leverette, Southern Living, 27 Apr. 2025

From the deep soaking tub to the double sinks and amenities such as the aromatic Amouage soap, the suite oozed with comfort and sophistication. Food and Drink With eight on-site restaurants and lounges, the Chedi has an abundance of fine-dining options. —Nicole Brewer, Travel + Leisure, 26 Apr. 2025