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
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Recent Examples of fragranceIngredients like alcohol and aluminum compounds, along with strong fragrances, may affect the skin.—Bestreviews, Mercury News, 23 Mar. 2026 One of the defining joys of current fragrance trends is the shift toward whimsy and experimentation—less pressure to commit to a single, signature pick and more room to explore.—Conçetta Ciarlo, Vogue, 23 Mar. 2026 The line now includes fragrances such as Grace and Wake, in travel size sprays and pretty glass bottles, and in moisturizing hand creams.—Karen Billing, San Diego Union-Tribune, 9 Mar. 2026 Light, sheer fragrances, like this one, are especially prone to transformation from person to person.—Ariel Wodarcyk, InStyle, 9 Mar. 2026 See All Example Sentences for fragrance
Also, deodorants more commonly contain perfume to mask odor.
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BestReviews,
Mercury News,
23 Mar. 2026
In my experience, challenging conventions and presenting a more candid depiction of what troubles our fighting men and women — and their folks back home — brings you more credibility and appreciation than trying to spray perfume on the horrors of the battlefield.