AROMATIC Synonyms: 42 Similar and Opposite Words

Q: How does the adjective 'aromatic' contrast with its synonyms?

Some common synonyms of aromatic are fragrant , odorous , and redolent . While all these words mean "emitting and diffusing scent," aromatic applies to things emitting pungent often fresh odors. // an aromatic blend of tobaccos

Q: When might 'fragrant' be a better fit than 'aromatic'?

The meanings of fragrant and aromatic largely overlap; however, fragrant applies to things (such as flowers or spices) with sweet or agreeable odors. // a fragrant rose

Q: When is 'odorous' a more appropriate choice than 'aromatic'?

The synonyms odorous and aromatic 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 it sensible to use 'redolent' instead of 'aromatic'?

While the synonyms redolent and aromatic are close in meaning, redolent applies usually to a place or thing impregnated with odors. // the kitchen was redolent of garlic and tomatoes

aromatic

adjective

ˌa-rə-ˈma-tik

Definition of aromatic

as in fragrant

having a pleasant smell aromatic flowers can add greatly to the ambience of a room

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How does the adjective aromatic contrast with its synonyms?

Some common synonyms of aromatic are fragrant, odorous, and redolent. While all these words mean "emitting and diffusing scent," aromatic applies to things emitting pungent often fresh odors.

an aromatic blend of tobaccos

When might fragrant be a better fit than aromatic?

The meanings of fragrant and aromatic largely overlap; however, fragrant applies to things (such as flowers or spices) with sweet or agreeable odors.

a fragrant rose

When is odorous a more appropriate choice than aromatic?

The synonyms odorous and aromatic 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 it sensible to use redolent instead of aromatic?

While the synonyms redolent and aromatic are close in meaning, 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 aromatic The result is aromatic and flavorful without being heavy-handed. — Andy Baraghani, Bon Appetit Magazine, 9 Oct. 2026 The note captures the aromatic green vine, which reads as sharp, leafy, slightly earthy and surprisingly fresh. — Lauren Jarvis-Gibson, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 6 Oct. 2026 Where rain falls more frequently, there will be less petrichor because the aromatic compounds won’t have enough time to accumulate. — Gregory Wakeman, Scientific American, 1 Oct. 2026 Ranging from crisp, fresh white wines to robust, aromatic reds, Macedonian wines are gaining cult-like status for their high quality and good price. — Bill St. John, Denver Post, 25 Sep. 2026 See All Example Sentences for aromatic

Recent Examples of Synonyms for aromatic

Adjective

But their delightfully fragrant teas, conveniently sold as a bundle of two of the brand's best sellers here, could make a tea lover out of anyone.

— Kate Kassin, Bon Appetit Magazine, 17 Oct. 2026
The domino arepa marries rich black beans fragrant with cinnamon and guajillo, and a tangy blend of mozzarella, Gouda and feta cheeses.

— Jenn Harris, Los Angeles Times, 15 Oct. 2026

Definition of fragrant

Adjective

Some patients might be totally fine with scented products, while others may be sensitive to them.

— Kara McGrath, Allure, 22 Oct. 2026
Each fragrance is available as a $49 eau de parfum; a $25 body, hair and linen mist; a $20 solid fragrance that doubles as a bag charm, and a $10 scented candle.

— Ryma Chikhoune, Footwear News, 20 Oct. 2026

Definition of scented

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aromas

aromatic

aromaticities

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“Aromatic.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/aromatic. Accessed 27 Oct. 2026.

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Synonyms of aromatic

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