FRAGRANT Synonyms: 42 Similar and Opposite Words

Q: 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

Q: 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

Q: 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

Q: 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

fragrant

adjective

ˈfrā-grənt

Definition of fragrant next

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

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Antonyms & Near Antonyms

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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

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 fragrant There were the classics—fragrant cinnamon buns the size of my face from Isles Bun & Coffee in Uptown and oozing Jucy Lucies at Matt’s Bar in south Minneapolis, conveniently close to the airport. —

Tim Chester, AFAR Media, 13 Dec. 2024 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 See all Example Sentences for fragrant