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
• spicy
• sweet
• redolent
• savory
• ambrosial
• fresh
• pungent
• flowery
• odorous
• odoriferous
• odiferous
• fruity
• pure
• 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

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

How to Store Thyme If you're tempted to use up all of your fragrant thyme right away, go for it—thyme is most flavorful immediately after harvesting. —Heather Bien, The Spruce, 15 June 2026

When shopping for fresh peaches, seek out fruit that smells fragrant and sweet, is free of bruises or blemishes, and is slightly firm with a little give. —Karla Walsh, Better Homes & Gardens, 14 June 2026

Order the kabuli pulao, a fragrant lamb pilaf layered with carrots and raisins, or the qorma kadu, a sweet and savory pumpkin stew that's become one of the kitchen's signature dishes. —Jenn Rice, Forbes.com, 14 June 2026

Strawberries, in season from May through June, are fragrant, red, juicy, and sweet—they're delicious on their own, sliced into fruit salads, or as the cornerstone of dessert favorites. —Lynn Andriani, Martha Stewart, 12 June 2026