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

Synonyms & Similar Words

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Antonyms & Near Antonyms

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 Ingredients 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
Recent Examples of Synonyms for fragrance
Noun
  • Floral scents surf on warm air through the open window.
    Stephanie Rafanelli, Condé Nast Traveler, 22 Mar. 2026
  • Yet insects may also be attracted to scents unpleasant to us as several notable plant species instruct.
    Joshua Siskin, Oc Register, 21 Mar. 2026
Noun
  • So did barbecue lighter fluid, dry cleaners, paints, deodorants, breweries, and the ethanol in the aromas from commercial bakeries.
    Patt Morrison, Los Angeles Times, 26 Mar. 2026
  • Peach Blossom & Nectar is a fruity, delectable aroma ideal for spring and summer.
    Kelsey Legg, ABC News, 23 Mar. 2026
Noun
  • Also, deodorants more commonly contain perfume to mask odor.
    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.
    Clarence Page, Chicago Tribune, 23 Mar. 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Fragrance.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/fragrance. Accessed 29 Mar. 2026.

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