Synonyms of scent

scent

noun

ˈsent 

1

as in fragrance

a sweet or pleasant smell

the delightful scent of her perfume

Synonyms & Similar Words

• fragrance
• aroma
• fragrancy
• perfume
• balm
• incense
• bouquet
• attar
• spice
• redolence
• essence
• odor

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

• stench
• stink
• reek
• malodor
• fetor

2

as in smell

the quality of a thing that makes it perceptible to the sense organs in the nose

dogs are able to detect scents that are far below the threshold detectable by the human nose

Synonyms & Similar Words

• smell
• aroma
• fragrance
• stench
• sniff
• odor
• perfume
• redolence
• fragrancy
• whiff
• attar
• musk
• bouquet
• rankness
• malodor
• spice
• funk
• stink
• lusciousness
• fetor
• tang
• rancidity
• incense
• reek
• savor
• ambrosia
• foulness
• aromaticity
• savoriness
• gaminess
• fetidness
• acridness
• noisomeness
• odorousness
• odoriferousness

Synonym Chooser

How does the noun scent differ from other similar words?

Some common synonyms of scent are fragrance, perfume, and redolence. While all these words mean "a sweet or pleasant odor," scent is very close to perfume but of wider application because more neutral in connotation.

scent-free soaps

When might fragrance be a better fit than scent?

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

the fragrance of pine

Where would perfume be a reasonable alternative to scent?

The meanings of perfume and scent largely overlap; however, perfume may suggest a stronger or heavier odor.

the perfume of lilacs

When is it sensible to use redolence instead of scent?

In some situations, the words redolence and scent are roughly equivalent. However, redolence implies a mixture of fragrant or pungent odors.

the redolence of a forest after a rain

Example Sentences

Recent Examples of scent

According to the outlets, Mason's job will be man trailing, which is following human scent to locate missing people. —Moná Thomas, PEOPLE, 5 June 2026

With a classic coconut scent, this broad-spectrum sunscreen will take you back to beach days and sunny picnics. —Bestreviews, Mercury News, 4 June 2026

Garcia Alvarez, whose art has been exhibited around the world, said each scent is a natural enhancement to his creations. —Sofia Celeste, Footwear News, 4 June 2026

The keen scent of the fall breeze with its hint of snow now swept down the valley and stung our faces. —Anton Money, Outdoor Life, 4 June 2026