fragrant

adjective

fra·​grant ˈfrā-grənt 

: having a sweet or pleasant smell

fragrantly adverb

Synonyms

• ambrosial
• aromatic
• perfumed
• redolent
• savory
• savoury
• scented
• sweet

Choose the Right Synonym for fragrant

odorous, fragrant, redolent, aromatic mean emitting and diffusing scent.

odorous applies to whatever has a strong distinctive smell whether pleasant or unpleasant.

odorous cheeses should be tightly wrapped

fragrant applies to things (such as flowers or spices) with sweet or agreeable odors.

a fragrant rose

redolent applies usually to a place or thing impregnated with odors.

the kitchen was redolent of garlic and tomatoes

aromatic applies to things emitting pungent often fresh odors.

an aromatic blend of tobaccos

Examples of fragrant in a Sentence

The soup was fragrant with herbs and spices.

the balsam fir is a favorite as a Christmas tree because it is so fragrant

Recent Examples on the Web

These recipes are perfect for slowing down and taking the time to savor all the joys of cooking, and this list includes recipes that are especially fragrant, comforting, and memorable. —Catherine Jessee, Southern Living, 11 Jan. 2025

Appetite fully satisfied, the day brimmed with possibilities; visit the historic Galle Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, sail on a whale-watching cruise, tour a fragrant cinnamon estate, or enjoy sunset cocktails at Smoke and Bitters, an open-air bar ranked among Asia’s top 50. —Christine Chitnis, Vogue, 8 Jan. 2025

Instead of the fragrant herbs and fresh produce that many people once sought in the market, a smoky and charred smell still swirled in the air. —Abdi Latif Dahir, New York Times, 7 Jan. 2025

The soothing sound of water from the fountains, accompanied by the fragrant aromas of essential oils immediately ease the senses once inside the spa. —Bianca Salonga, Forbes, 6 Jan. 2025

Word History

Etymology

Middle English, from Latin fragrant-, fragrans, from present participle of fragrare to be fragrant

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined above

Kids Definition

fragrant

adjective

fra·​grant ˈfrā-grənt 

: having a sweet or agreeable smell

fragrantly adverb