as in scent
a sweet or pleasant smell the fragrance of lilac trees in full bloom

Synonyms & Similar Words

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Synonym Chooser

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

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of fragrance The center room also contains a beauty section, fashion jewelry and fragrances. Molly Davis, Nashville Tennessean, 20 Oct. 2025 That’s rare, especially in high-end perfumery where perfumers often add jasmine or rose to give vanilla fragrances more complexity. Kimberly Wilson, Essence, 17 Oct. 2025 However, the candle also comes in several other best-selling fragrances, including warm leathered amber and firewood and spice. Molly Blanco, Better Homes & Gardens, 16 Oct. 2025 Many a perfume lover will cite it as their favorite-ever fragrance, and certainly as Penhaligon’s best ever. Adam Hurly, Robb Report, 16 Oct. 2025 See All Example Sentences for fragrance
Recent Examples of Synonyms for fragrance
Noun
  • These iconic spring flowers are known for their clusters of bright purple, blue, pink, and white blooms that grow atop tall stalks and powerful scent.
    Karen Brewer Grossman, Southern Living, 10 Nov. 2025
  • Plus, the full scent trio of two candles and a diffuser will run you less than $75 with sale prices.
    Audrey Lee, Architectural Digest, 10 Nov. 2025
Noun
  • The scent combines notes of charred hardwood, carbon clove, saw dust and powder smolder to achieve an aroma similar to that of a smoky old fashioned.
    Kaleigh Werner, Footwear News, 5 Nov. 2025
  • Wander among vendors selling paintings, handmade jewelry, and local crafts as the aroma of cooking treats fills the air.
    Aaron Randolph, Travel + Leisure, 5 Nov. 2025
Noun
  • For this reason, tweens tend to prefer gifts that are popular or trending, such as the viral Sol de Janeiro perfume or a starter skincare routine made with gentle ingredients that won’t irritate their young skin.
    Anja Webb, Parents, 6 Nov. 2025
  • That began in February, when L’Oréal took a long-term minority stake in the Omani niche perfume brand Amouage.
    Jennifer Weil, Footwear News, 4 Nov. 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Fragrance.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/fragrance. Accessed 21 Nov. 2025.

More from Merriam-Webster on fragrance

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