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

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 redolent How Cariño Turns Mexican Spirits Into Liquid Anthropology Cariño’s Oaxacan old-fashioned at is redolent with aromas of piloncillo, cinnamon, and orange. Ximena N. Beltran Quan Kiu, Bon Appétit, 18 Feb. 2025 Absent since 2019, U.K. delegates will be back in full swing with a strong Scottish presence redolent of a more collective approach – and for that, organizers are beaming. Ben Croll, Variety, 30 Jan. 2025 The build-your-own breakfast sandwich was my favorite until the last day when a shakshuka redolent with warm spices and jammy tomatoes from Luvohondo's farm graced the menu. Carrie Honaker, Travel + Leisure, 3 Feb. 2025 Optimization for cost and convenience has made the average tortilla more redolent of cardboard than corn, designed not for flavor but to encase delicious fillings. Kristen V. Brown, The Atlantic, 23 Dec. 2024 See All Example Sentences for redolent
Recent Examples of Synonyms for redolent
Adjective
  • The flowers of some violet species can be fragrant, and have been used as a perfume substitute at the turn of the 20th century.
    Sheryl De Vore, Chicago Tribune, 29 Apr. 2025
  • The needle-like foliage is fragrant and the distinctive flavor is used to season vegetables and meat.
    Mary Marlowe Leverette, Southern Living, 23 Apr. 2025
Adjective
  • On the nose, this bourbon is aromatic and approachable, with aromas of caramel corn, vanilla wafer, light oak, and a subtle hint of cooked, honeyed grain.
    Joseph V Micallef, Forbes.com, 10 May 2025
  • Gently muddle until the mint is aromatic, then add 2 ounces white rum and ice.
    Karla Walsh, Better Homes & Gardens, 9 May 2025
Adjective
  • Sub out a Coffee Milk–scented candle at Craftland or the Landing. Courtesy of Zuoranyi/Unsplash 4.
    Mark Ellwood, AFAR Media, 8 May 2025
  • Tune Into Your Body Focus on your senses by dimming the lights, lighting scented candles, or playing relaxing music or nature sounds.
    Lana Barhum, Verywell Health, 6 May 2025

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Cite this Entry

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

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