fragrance

noun

fra·​grance ˈfrā-grən(t)s 

1

a

: a sweet or delicate odor (as of fresh flowers, pine trees, or perfume)

b

: something (such as a perfume) compounded to give off a sweet or pleasant odor

2

: the quality or state of having a sweet odor

Synonyms

• aroma
• attar
• otto
• balm
• bouquet
• fragrancy
• incense
• perfume
• redolence
• scent
• spice

Choose the Right Synonym for fragrance

fragrance, perfume, scent, redolence mean a sweet or pleasant odor.

fragrance suggests the odors of flowers or other growing things.

the fragrance of pine

perfume may suggest a stronger or heavier odor.

the perfume of lilacs

scent is very close to perfume but of wider application because more neutral in connotation.

scent-free soaps

redolence implies a mixture of fragrant or pungent odors.

the redolence of a forest after a rain

Examples of fragrance in a Sentence

a flower with a lovely fragrance

the fragrance of lilac trees in full bloom

Recent Examples on the Web

Dior is renowned for its cutting-edge skin care products and inspiring fragrances. —Justin Fenner, Robb Report, 21 Jan. 2025

Like prior Cacharel fragrances, such as Anaïs Anaïs from 1978, Ella Ella has a repeating name. —Jennifer Weil, WWD, 17 Jan. 2025

This fragrance’s citrusy top notes of bergamot, juniper, and lemon are given a spicy heat via pepper, incense, and orris. —Jennifer Hussein, Allure, 15 Jan. 2025

Their fragrance emanates from the kitchen of Colorado Hots. —Miguel Otárola, The Denver Post, 14 Jan. 2025

Word History

First Known Use

1667, in the meaning defined at sense 1a

Kids Definition

fragrance

noun

fra·​grance ˈfrā-grən(t)s 

: a sweet, pleasant, and often flowery or fruity smell