PERFUME Synonyms: 21 Similar and Opposite Words

Q: 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

Q: 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

Q: 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

Q: 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

perfume 1 of 2

noun

ˈpər-ˌfyüm

Definition of perfume

as in scent

a sweet or pleasant smell the perfume of fresh flowers filled the room

Synonyms & Similar Words

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Antonyms & Near Antonyms

perfume

2 of 2

verb

(ˌ)pər-ˈfyüm

as in to scent

to fill or infuse with a pleasant odor or odor-releasing substance roses perfumed the wedding chapel

Synonyms & Similar Words

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

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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

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.

Recent Examples of perfume

Noun

Riddle Oil is a pheromone perfume oil that has a light, amber, and musk scent that when added to your skin, works with your pheromones to create the most gorgeous fragrance. — Olivia Dubyak, InStyle, 22 July 2026 This eau de parfum, in particular, balances fruity and floral well—without smelling like your grandma’s perfume that’s been on her vanities for decades. — Conçetta Ciarlo, Vogue, 21 July 2026

Verb

The finish is long and perfumed, with oak and a touch of tea tree oil. — Chris Perugini, Forbes.com, 29 June 2026 Fresh lavender and lemon zest get rubbed into the sugar with your hands—a simple trick that perfumes the blueberry-peach filling with floral, citrusy notes. — Maggie Meyer Glisan, Better Homes & Gardens, 6 June 2026 See All Example Sentences for perfume

Recent Examples of Synonyms for perfume

Noun

Later, the hotel turns this scent into a candle and includes a card with the ingredients and the date it was made.

— Jim Dobson, Forbes.com, 25 July 2026
Maury says the thoughtful touches are world-class, including a series of essential oils and a recipe book left in every room to create your own bespoke scent to use in shower gels and body lotions.

— Laura Dannen Redman, Robb Report, 23 July 2026

Definition of scent

Noun

Investigators also seized boxes that had been resealed and were ready to ship, packages containing modeling clay instead of fragrance products, additional modeling clay, a heat gun, glue and packaging materials, according to the Sheriff’s Office.

— Angelique Brenes, PEOPLE, 25 July 2026
The slightly musky, your-skin-but-better fragrance oozes an expensive, sophisticated air.

— Kyra Surgent, InStyle, 25 July 2026

Definition of fragrance

Noun

Next is Panthea Parker, a woman whose last name follows her first name like aroma follows a cup of coffee.

— Brian Moylan, Vulture, 22 July 2026
Japanese Sansho pepper brings a vibrant citrus aroma, combined with a somehow-mild, tingling heat that leaves a temporary numbing sensation on the tongue.

— Aly Walansky, Forbes.com, 22 July 2026

Definition of aroma

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performs

perfume

perfumed

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“Perfume.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/perfume. Accessed 28 Jul. 2026.

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Synonyms of perfume

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