as in scent
a sweet or pleasant smell the fragrance of lilac trees in full bloom

Synonyms & Similar Words

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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 Despite its already-impressive fragrance portfolio, Kilian’s Sunkissed Goddess has quickly become my favorite of the bunch. Kiana Murden, Vogue, 20 May 2025 This summer’s biggest fragrance trends capture the scents of the season, with some more unexpected than others. Sophia Panych, Allure, 17 May 2025 Notes of wood and hay bolster this cedar-and-bamboo-heavy fragrance, while earthy notes of myrrh and sandalwood elevate this youthful structure into a sacred place. Lori Keong, Architectural Digest, 16 May 2025 Included in the launch are the Sublime Large Gift Set ($159), which comes with a full, mini and travel-size fragrance, and the Sublime Small Gift Set ($45) featuring a miniature and travel bottle. Michelle Lee, People.com, 9 May 2025 See All Example Sentences for fragrance
Recent Examples of Synonyms for fragrance
Noun
  • There’s a fragrance-free option, which dries down to have zero scent on the skin.
    Kristin Canning, Wired News, 21 May 2025
  • The formula is also conditioning, thanks to shea butter, non-sticky, and has a delicious sweet scent.
    Essence, Essence, 20 May 2025
Noun
  • This stunning wine is salmon colored in the glass with enticing aromas of apple, cherry blossom, and honeysuckle.
    Mike DeSimone, Robb Report, 29 May 2025
  • That’s all thanks to the Maillard reaction, which occurs when sugars interact with the amino acids of proteins to create new, delicious flavors and aroma compounds, and also heightens the umami.
    The Washington Post, San Diego Union-Tribune, 28 May 2025
Noun
  • The perfume dries down to an array of pink pepper, bergamont, and soft rose.
    Kiana Murden, Vogue, 20 May 2025
  • Sinclair says the rum note in it came about after plenty of experimentation—and alludes to the debauchery of a long night after-hours—while the cherry that forms the heart of the perfume (derived from pure cherry extract) is another gourmand note with sultry connotations.
    Lori Keong, Architectural Digest, 16 May 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Fragrance.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/fragrance. Accessed 4 Jun. 2025.

More from Merriam-Webster on fragrance

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