fragrance

noun

ˈfrā-grən(t)s How to pronounce fragrance (audio)
Definition of fragrancenext
as in scent
a sweet or pleasant smell the fragrance of lilac trees in full bloom

Synonyms & Similar Words

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Antonyms & Near Antonyms

Synonym Chooser

How does the noun fragrance differ from other similar words?

Some common synonyms of fragrance are perfume, redolence, and scent. While all these words mean "a sweet or pleasant odor," fragrance suggests the odors of flowers or other growing things.

the fragrance of pine

When can perfume be used instead of fragrance?

While the synonyms perfume and fragrance are close in meaning, perfume may suggest a stronger or heavier odor.

the perfume of lilacs

When might redolence be a better fit than fragrance?

The synonyms redolence and fragrance are sometimes interchangeable, but redolence implies a mixture of fragrant or pungent odors.

the redolence of a forest after a rain

How do scent and perfume relate to one another, in the sense of fragrance?

Scent is very close to perfume but of wider application because more neutral in connotation.

scent-free soaps

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 fragrance When sprayed on my wrist, tobacco and musks stood out as star notes, while on Murden, the fragrance read sweet and less resinous. — Conçetta Ciarlo, Vogue, 23 Oct. 2026 Dove’s new fragrance is literally the soap in perfume for—a floral, powdery concoction that brings me right back to my childhood bathtub. — James Manso, Allure, 23 Oct. 2026 The brand also had licenses with Morris for fragrances and with De Rigo for eyewear and launched a feminine denim line. — Luisa Zargani, Footwear News, 23 Oct. 2026 Those who design fragrances keep this connection top of mind when painting olfactory pictures that will then turn into memories. — Helen Carefoot, Flow Space, 22 Oct. 2026 See All Example Sentences for fragrance
Recent Examples of Synonyms for fragrance
  1. scent
  2. aroma
  3. perfume
Noun
  • Here’s to hoping the body butter extends to all of our favorite Phlur scents.
    — Madison San Miguel, Allure, 30 Oct. 2026
  • With a subtle and spa-like floral scent and a soothing, lightweight gel consistency, the cream also lends itself to a pleasantly sensorial application experience.
    — Jenny Berg, Vogue, 30 Oct. 2026
Definition of scent
Noun
  • Presented by Carolina Herrera For those drawn to hyper-femme perfumes, Carolina Herrera fragrances are often a popular choice—the range remains a crowd-pleaser for lovers of sweet, floral, and bold aromas.
    — Conçetta Ciarlo, Vogue, 26 Oct. 2026
  • The 2020 Gran Vino has aromas of kiwi, gooseberry, and white peach.
    — Mike DeSimone, Robb Report, 23 Oct. 2026
Definition of aroma
Noun
  • The changing fragrance consumer is also creating opportunities for brands beyond traditional luxury perfume houses.
    — Kapila Ireland, Vogue, 27 Oct. 2026
  • Brands like Frederic Malle, Essential Parfums and the new brand Anecdote by Artists list the perfumers prominently alongside the name of the perfumes.
    — Arabelle Sicardi, CNN Money, 27 Oct. 2026
Definition of perfume

Browse Nearby Words

fragments
fragrance
fragrances
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Cite this Entry

“Fragrance.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/fragrance. Accessed 31 Oct. 2026.

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More from Merriam-Webster on fragrance

Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about fragrance

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