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

House Bill 955 would change the flower to the native sweetbay magnolia, a small evergreen understory tree with a fragrant white flower. —Dan Raby, CBS News, 28 Jan. 2026

Toast ½ cup sliced almonds in a dry small skillet over medium heat, stirring constantly, until golden and fragrant, about 5 minutes. —Jesse Szewczyk, Bon Appetit Magazine, 27 Jan. 2026

The 18th-century palazzo hotel—which is surrounded by gardens teeming with fragrant olive blossoms and jasmine—is the brainchild of Christopher and Suzanne Sharp, the co-founders of the fashion world-favorite homewares brand The Rug Company. —Anna Grace Lee, Vogue, 27 Jan. 2026

Cook for 1 minute, until the herbs are fragrant. —Robin Miller, AZCentral.com, 26 Jan. 2026