How does the noun fragrance differ from other similar words?
Some common synonyms of fragrance are perfume, redolence, and scent. While all these words mean "a sweet or pleasant odor," fragrance suggests the odors of flowers or other growing things.
the fragrance of pine
When can perfume be used instead of fragrance?
While the synonyms perfume and fragrance are close in meaning, perfume may suggest a stronger or heavier odor.
the perfume of lilacs
When might redolence be a better fit than fragrance?
The synonyms redolence and fragrance are sometimes interchangeable, but redolence implies a mixture of fragrant or pungent odors.
the redolence of a forest after a rain
How do scent and perfume relate to one another, in the sense of fragrance?
Scent is very close to perfume but of wider application because more neutral in connotation.
scent-free soaps
Example Sentences
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Recent Examples of fragranceHenry Rose does fragrances that are fresh and light, but still memorable, so well.—Ariel Wodarcyk, InStyle, 3 Mar. 2026 The fragrance-free formula is safe for sensitive skin.—Kiana Murden, Vogue, 2 Mar. 2026 But behind the warm glow and custom fragrance blends, owner Chris Holloway is fighting a battle most customers never see.—Wakisha Bailey, CBS News, 2 Mar. 2026 The fragrance is tantalizing and the sweet and tart flavors balance deliciously, along with spicy heat.—Cathy Thomas, Oc Register, 2 Mar. 2026 See All Example Sentences for fragrance
The likes of Interview editor-in-chief Mel Ottenberg and German photographer Wolfgang Tillmans have been spotted perusing the fair’s textiles, tableware, lighting, scents, ceramics, and furniture from independent designers, architects, heritage brands, family-run companies, and galleries.
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Katherine McGrath,
Vogue,
7 Mar. 2026
Of course, military operations often have to be kept under wraps to protect combatants and keep enemies off the scent.
Cold temperatures dull flavors and aromas—meaning your drink just won't be as full-flavored as one poured at room temperature or served over ice.
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Katie Rosenhouse,
Southern Living,
5 Mar. 2026
Louis Latour’s 2024 Chassagne Montrachet has aromas of honeycomb, pineapple, and white flowers with bright acidity and flavors of vanilla, pear, and marzipan.
Her parents’ bedroom still felt a little bit like church, hushed and dark, the air redolent with her mother’s perfume and hair spray, something mustier beneath.
—
Literary Hub,
Literary Hub,
2 Mar. 2026
Fun pink-and-red dark spot stickers that erase hyperpigmentation and look good doing it; an innovative perfume milk launch that packs skin care and long-wear benefits; a genius frizzy hair product for taming flyways on gusty mornings; and so many more swoon-worthy staples.