Synonyms of fragrant

fragrant

adjective

ˈfrā-grənt 

as in aromatic

having a pleasant smell

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

Synonyms & Similar Words

• aromatic
• scented
• perfumed
• sweet
• spicy
• savoury
• redolent
• savory
• ambrosial
• fresh
• pungent
• flowery
• odorous
• odoriferous
• odiferous
• pure
• fruity
• clean
• odored

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

• smelly
• malodorous
• fetid
• stinky
• putrid
• strong
• stinking
• rancid
• noisome
• foul
• reeking
• odorless
• rank
• unscented
• skunky
• stale
• reeky
• stenchy
• musty
• fusty
• stenchful
• gamy
• gamey

Synonym Chooser

How does the adjective fragrant contrast with its synonyms?

Some common synonyms of fragrant are aromatic, odorous, and redolent. While all these words mean "emitting and diffusing scent," fragrant applies to things (such as flowers or spices) with sweet or agreeable odors.

a fragrant rose

When might aromatic be a better fit than fragrant?

The meanings of aromatic and fragrant largely overlap; however, aromatic applies to things emitting pungent often fresh odors.

an aromatic blend of tobaccos

When is it sensible to use odorous instead of fragrant?

The synonyms odorous and fragrant are sometimes interchangeable, but odorous applies to whatever has a strong distinctive smell whether pleasant or unpleasant.

odorous cheeses should be tightly wrapped

When is redolent a more appropriate choice than fragrant?

The words redolent and fragrant are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, redolent applies usually to a place or thing impregnated with odors.

the kitchen was redolent of garlic and tomatoes

Example Sentences

Recent Examples of fragrant

Keira Knightley’s Pride & Prejudice is turning 20, and there’s now a very fragrant way to celebrate. —Victoria Edel, People.com, 29 Jan. 2025

The interiors are note-perfect and the views unmatched— which, combined with the fragrant wildflowers around the property and fresh flavors at the restaurant, all make for a sensory-rich stay. —Nicole Kliest, Vogue, 28 Jan. 2025

What Is Palak Paneer? Palak Paneer is a popular Indian dish consisting of paneer (fresh Indian cottage cheese cubes), fragrant spices, and a creamy spinach sauce. —Symiah Dorsey, Southern Living, 5 Feb. 2025

Note, however, that the deliciously fragrant flowers that turn into coffee cherries (which, like the foliage, are toxic until they’re dried and roasted) likely won’t bloom unless the plant reaches 3 feet. —Mike Irvine, Better Homes & Gardens, 4 Feb. 2025