Synonyms of fragrant

fragrant

adjective

ˈfrā-grənt 

as in aromatic

having a pleasant smell

the balsam fir is a favorite as a Christmas tree because it is so fragrant

Synonyms & Similar Words

• aromatic
• scented
• perfumed
• sweet
• spicy
• savoury
• redolent
• savory
• ambrosial
• fresh
• pungent
• flowery
• odorous
• odoriferous
• odiferous
• pure
• fruity
• clean
• odored

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

• smelly
• malodorous
• fetid
• stinky
• putrid
• strong
• stinking
• rancid
• noisome
• foul
• reeking
• odorless
• rank
• unscented
• skunky
• stale
• reeky
• stenchy
• musty
• fusty
• stenchful
• gamy
• gamey

Synonym Chooser

How does the adjective fragrant contrast with its synonyms?

Some common synonyms of fragrant are aromatic, odorous, and redolent. While all these words mean "emitting and diffusing scent," fragrant applies to things (such as flowers or spices) with sweet or agreeable odors.

a fragrant rose

When might aromatic be a better fit than fragrant?

The meanings of aromatic and fragrant largely overlap; however, aromatic applies to things emitting pungent often fresh odors.

an aromatic blend of tobaccos

When is it sensible to use odorous instead of fragrant?

The synonyms odorous and fragrant 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 redolent a more appropriate choice than fragrant?

The words redolent and fragrant are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, redolent applies usually to a place or thing impregnated with odors.

the kitchen was redolent of garlic and tomatoes

Example Sentences

Recent Examples of fragrant

Make sure to order: Crab and pork soup dumplings; pork and chive dumplings; and beef stewed noodle soup, fragrant with anise and clove. —Matthew Odam, Austin American Statesman, 30 July 2025

When choosing heirlooms, don’t squeeze these delicate fruits; enlist your olfactory and sniff for a deep fragrant aroma. —Catharine Kaufman, San Diego Union-Tribune, 22 July 2025

Cook for 30 seconds, until the cumin and oregano are fragrant. —Robin Miller, AZCentral.com, 17 July 2025

The suite’s 11,000 square feet of outdoor space include a private garden with a plunge pool shaded by fragrant lemon and olive trees–a prime perch for soaking up the island’s spectacular sunsets. —Alexandra Kirkman, Forbes.com, 1 Aug. 2025