Synonym Chooser

How does the noun redolence differ from other similar words?

Some common synonyms of redolence are fragrance, perfume, and scent. While all these words mean "a sweet or pleasant odor," redolence implies a mixture of fragrant or pungent odors.

the redolence of a forest after a rain

Where would fragrance be a reasonable alternative to redolence?

While in some cases nearly identical to redolence, fragrance suggests the odors of flowers or other growing things.

the fragrance of pine

In what contexts can perfume take the place of redolence?

The words perfume and redolence are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, perfume may suggest a stronger or heavier odor.

the perfume of lilacs

How do scent and perfume relate to one another, in the sense of redolence?

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 redolence The Russian army has focused on, and even mythologized, tank warfare for decades for its redolence of Russian victories over the Nazis in World War II. Andrew E. Kramer, New York Times, 1 Mar. 2023 This version is especially pared down, relying mostly on the bones, which are boiled over multiple hours to imbue the broth with fatty redolence. New York Times, 13 June 2022 To celebrate the occasion, Green’s son, Grant Green Jr. — a guitarist of cool, unhurried disposition, bearing the striking redolence of his father’s style — leads an all-star band at Jazz Standard. New York Times, 28 June 2018 This new sound often bears the markings of calypso, Afrobeat, grime and drum ’n’ bass, plus the spiritual jazz of the 1960s and ’70s, and an abiding redolence of Indian classical. Giovanni Russonello, New York Times, 29 Aug. 2017 A huge pot bubbles on the stove at the yellow guest house for hours, filling the air with the cloying redolence of burning tires. Cheryl Katz, Smithsonian, 17 Jan. 2017
Recent Examples of Synonyms for redolence
Noun
  • My nightly shower regimen has turned into an everything shower, complete with subtle sea salt scents, scrubs, and body washes infused with nourishing and replenishing ingredients.
    Jessica Fields, Essence, 8 May 2025
  • One of the most challenging aspects of dealing with these beetles is that the feeding pests cause the affected plant to produce a volatile aromatic scent, which quickly attracts other beetles to the feast.
    Arricca Elin SanSone, Southern Living, 7 May 2025
Noun
  • Dusty smell: An unpleasant, dusty smell coming from air vents is the result of dirty air filters that need to be changed.
    Maria Sabella, Better Homes & Gardens, 16 May 2025
  • The smell of hydrogen sulfide and sewage fills the air, making everyone’s nose crinkle ...
    Audrey Fahlberg, National Review, 15 May 2025
Noun
  • Included in the launch are the Sublime Large Gift Set ($159), which comes with a full, mini and travel-size fragrance, and the Sublime Small Gift Set ($45) featuring a miniature and travel bottle.
    Michelle Lee, People.com, 9 May 2025
  • His transformative journey into perfumery began unexpectedly during a visit to France, where a chance encounter ignited his enduring passion for fragrances.
    Connie Etemadi, USA Today, 7 May 2025
Noun
  • Pronounced aromas of charred oak, caramelized banana, vanilla bean, and fresh-baked cornbread are featured on the nose.
    Joseph V Micallef, Forbes.com, 17 May 2025
  • The sweet, earthy aroma after a late August rainstorm.
    Sophia Panych, Allure, 17 May 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Redolence.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/redolence. Accessed 23 May. 2025.

More from Merriam-Webster on redolence

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