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

However, the pagoda dogwood is an especially popular dogwood variety for front yard landscaping thanks to its graceful arching form, which stays under 25 feet high, and fragrant white flowers that bloom from late spring through early summer. —Lauren Landers, The Spruce, 9 Apr. 2026

Made with fragrant heirloom corn masa, it’s lined with torn quesillo, melted and seared until lightly bronzed, adding a crisp, savory layer. —Anais Martinez, Bon Appetit Magazine, 8 Apr. 2026

Though most of the several hundred tables were dedicated to selling weapons and ammo, the vendor selling hot dogs and Bavarian pretzels at one side of the convention had a clear view of the table where two men put on fragrant tastings of Heath’s Blend seasoning. —Idaho Statesman, 7 Apr. 2026

Harasim suggests leaving out Arm & Hammer baking soda packs (which even come as air filters), or a fragrant bar of soap like Irish Spring to keep things smelling better. —Lori Keong, Architectural Digest, 2 Apr. 2026