How does the noun perfume differ from other similar words?
Some common synonyms of perfume are fragrance, redolence, and scent. While all these words mean "a sweet or pleasant odor," perfume may suggest a stronger or heavier odor.
the perfume of lilacs
When would fragrance be a good substitute for perfume?
Although the words fragrance and perfume have much in common, fragrance suggests the odors of flowers or other growing things.
the fragrance of pine
When could redolence be used to replace perfume?
In some situations, the words redolence and perfume are roughly equivalent. However, redolence implies a mixture of fragrant or pungent odors.
the redolence of a forest after a rain
How are the words scent and perfume related?
Scent is very close to perfume but of wider application because more neutral in connotation.
scent-free soaps
Example Sentences
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Recent Examples of perfume
Noun
And the Sol de Janeiro perfume mist is the perfect example of this new era.—Anja Webb, Parents, 11 June 2025 The campaign for the Coach Gold fragrance features Reid in New York City, dressed in a gold wardrobe to evoke the look and design of the perfume.—Julia Teti, Footwear News, 10 June 2025
Verb
Pours are $40 each; Variation 1 tastes more delicate and floral, perfumed with notes of orange blossom while No. 2 develops a more complex and high-acidity, punchy flavor of jasmine and plum.—Emily Bloch, Bon Appetit Magazine, 30 Apr. 2025 The ambrosial beans that perfume many of our favorite desserts are a challenge to produce.—Saveur Editors, Saveur, 16 Apr. 2025 See All Example Sentences for perfume
Natural vapors coming from trees, like the monoterpenes that give pine trees their scent, produce aerosols and thus low-lying clouds that hover above forests.
—
Max G. Levy,
Smithsonian Magazine,
26 June 2025
After a shower at the gym, this is my favorite scent to put on.
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