Synonym Chooser

How does the adjective redolent contrast with its synonyms?

Some common synonyms of redolent are aromatic, fragrant, and odorous. While all these words mean "emitting and diffusing scent," redolent applies usually to a place or thing impregnated with odors.

the kitchen was redolent of garlic and tomatoes

When is it sensible to use aromatic instead of redolent?

In some situations, the words aromatic and redolent are roughly equivalent. However, aromatic applies to things emitting pungent often fresh odors.

an aromatic blend of tobaccos

When can fragrant be used instead of redolent?

The words fragrant and redolent can be used in similar contexts, but fragrant applies to things (such as flowers or spices) with sweet or agreeable odors.

a fragrant rose

In what contexts can odorous take the place of redolent?

The words odorous and redolent are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, odorous applies to whatever has a strong distinctive smell whether pleasant or unpleasant.

odorous cheeses should be tightly wrapped

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 redolent Once more layering the frame with oxidized textures redolent of water damage and mirror rot, his exacting compositions suggest a pained present becoming shameful history before the very eyes of its participants. Guy Lodge, Variety, 12 Dec. 2024 Their discussion is redolent with disdain for the program and its enrollees — especially for beneficiaries of the Affordable Care Act’s Medicaid expansion, which added childless low-income households to a program that had chiefly covered families with children. Michael Hiltzik, Los Angeles Times, 20 Nov. 2024 This is music at once pristine and forbidding, redolent of the austere polyphony of the late Middle Ages and the early Renaissance. Alex Ross, The New Yorker, 2 Dec. 2024 Along with the juices released from the apples when baked, brown butter, brown sugar and vanilla create a rich, caramelly filling, redolent with cinnamon. Carolynn Carreño, Los Angeles Times, 20 Nov. 2024 See all Example Sentences for redolent 
Recent Examples of Synonyms for redolent
Adjective
  • After years of research, a highly fragrant pink and apricot hybrid tea rose named after the lifestyle doyenne has hit the market.
    Jessica Jordan, CNN, 23 Jan. 2025
  • Stir in garlic, sage and remaining 2 tablespoons flour and cook until vegetables are well coated with flour and garlic is fragrant, about 1 minute.
    Tribune News Service, The Mercury News, 21 Jan. 2025
Adjective
  • Otherwise, enjoy the aromatic and flavorful delight turmeric tea has to offer.
    Jonathan Purtell, Verywell Health, 22 Jan. 2025
  • Known for their aromatic scent, these trees have incredibly flammable, oily leaves.
    Hannah Singleton, WIRED, 21 Jan. 2025
Adjective
  • Achieving a better night's sleep can be achieved through a variety of methods, including lighting scented candles, applying specific lotions, and even eating certain foods.
    Toni Sutton, People.com, 20 Jan. 2025
  • Droves of customers are buying this high-end scented Yankee Candle, along with this fluffy throw blanket to transform their living spaces into snuggly oases.
    Clara McMahon, People.com, 11 Jan. 2025

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Thesaurus Entries Near redolent

Cite this Entry

“Redolent.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/redolent. Accessed 1 Feb. 2025.

More from Merriam-Webster on redolent

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