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

Inside, the warehouse was bustling and fragrant. —Anna Grace Lee, Vogue, 1 Apr. 2026

Lemon balm, part of the mint family, is a fragrant herb that helps control various garden pests and attracts pollinators. —Lauren Landers, Better Homes & Gardens, 1 Apr. 2026

Sounds lovely, and fragrant, too. —Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 31 Mar. 2026

After the tea had finished its boil, Meraj poured it out, straining the steaming, fragrant liquid into small cups. —Nathan Heller, New Yorker, 30 Mar. 2026