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 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 These aromatic, and often limited-edition, hydrators pair two of the best beauty characteristics—redolent scents and advanced moisture. Kiana Murden, Vogue, 18 Dec. 2024 See All Example Sentences for redolent
Recent Examples of Synonyms for redolent
Adjective
  • Its cuisine is fragrant, bold, and poetic, a feast of simmered stews and grilled meats, gently spiced, overlaid with bright and sour harmonics from fresh herbs and tart, fruity vinegars.
    Helen Rosner, New Yorker, 27 Apr. 2025
  • The showy, fragrant blooms provide an important early source of nectar for hummingbirds, butterflies, and other pollinators.
    Kim Toscano, Southern Living, 27 Apr. 2025
Adjective
  • This resinous fragrance blends French lavender with the aromatic warmth of earthy myrrh.
    Conçetta Ciarlo, Vogue, 28 Apr. 2025
  • Choose from African, Mexican, or French forms to enjoy bright, warm red, oranges, or yellows with aromatic foliage.
    Mary Marlowe Leverette, Southern Living, 27 Apr. 2025
Adjective
  • This fragrance-meets-decor accessory has become a hit on TikTok and Reddit for its design that mirrors a table lamp, all while heating your favorite scented candles evenly sans an open flame.
    Nashia Baker, Architectural Digest, 29 Apr. 2025
  • The study , a synthetic fragrance used in many scented personal care products and household items, as a compound that activates receptors in the hypothalamus responsible for releasing gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH).
    Jasmine Laws, MSNBC Newsweek, 24 Apr. 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Redolent.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/redolent. Accessed 3 May. 2025.

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