Synonyms of redolent

redolent

adjective

ˈre-də-lənt 

as in aromatic

having a pleasant smell

my grandmother's house always seemed to be redolent with the aroma of baking bread

Synonyms & Similar Words

• aromatic
• fragrant
• scented
• perfumed
• sweet
• spicy
• ambrosial
• savory
• fresh
• pungent
• odorous
• flowery
• odoriferous
• pure
• odiferous
• odored
• fruity
• clean

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

• putrid
• fetid
• malodorous
• strong
• stinking
• rancid
• reeking
• smelly
• noisome
• stinky
• foul
• rank
• odorless
• musty
• reeky
• stale
• fusty
• skunky
• unscented
• stenchy
• stenchful
• gamy

Synonym Chooser

How does the adjective redolent contrast with its synonyms?

Some common synonyms of redolent are aromatic, fragrant, and odorous. While all these words mean "emitting and diffusing scent," redolent applies usually to a place or thing impregnated with odors.

the kitchen was redolent of garlic and tomatoes

When is it sensible to use aromatic instead of redolent?

In some situations, the words aromatic and redolent are roughly equivalent. However, aromatic applies to things emitting pungent often fresh odors.

an aromatic blend of tobaccos

When can fragrant be used instead of redolent?

The words fragrant and redolent can be used in similar contexts, but fragrant applies to things (such as flowers or spices) with sweet or agreeable odors.

a fragrant rose

In what contexts can odorous take the place of redolent?

The words odorous and redolent are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, odorous applies to whatever has a strong distinctive smell whether pleasant or unpleasant.

odorous cheeses should be tightly wrapped

Example Sentences

Recent Examples of redolent

Designer Jerry Lorenzo doesn’t much care for outré gestures, theatrical poses, and arch style statements redolent of novelty. —Mayer Rus, Architectural Digest, 13 Aug. 2025

The Library of Cultures is decorated with lapis lazuli pigments and gilded wood, while the Music Room is redolent of Venice’s golden age. —Everett Potter, Forbes.com, 10 Aug. 2025

That felt redolent of a year prior when Messi confirmed his exit (and Neymar then left that August). —Liam Tharme, New York Times, 29 May 2025

Well balanced, redolent with bright acidity and red fruit, wonderfully structured with sleek tannins and jumpy fruit flavors. —Tom Mullen, Forbes, 2 Mar. 2025

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