redolence

noun

red·​o·​lence ˈre-də-lən(t)s How to pronounce redolence (audio)
Synonyms of redolence
1
: an often pungent or agreeable odor
2
: the quality or state of being redolent

Synonyms of redolence

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fragrance, perfume, scent, redolence mean a sweet or pleasant odor.

fragrance suggests the odors of flowers or other growing things.

the fragrance of pine

perfume may suggest a stronger or heavier odor.

the perfume of lilacs

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

scent-free soaps

redolence implies a mixture of fragrant or pungent odors.

the redolence of a forest after a rain

Examples of redolence in a Sentence

breathed in the redolence of the apple orchard the redolence of fir trees always reminds me of Christmas
Recent Examples on the Web
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.
This version is especially pared down, relying mostly on the bones, which are boiled over multiple hours to imbue the broth with fatty redolence. — New York Times, 13 June 2022

Word History

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of redolence was in the 15th century

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red oil
redolence
redolent
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Cite this Entry

“Redolence.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/redolence. Accessed 1 Sep. 2026.

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Kids Definition

redolence

noun
red·​o·​lence ˈred-ᵊl-ən(t)s How to pronounce redolence (audio)
1
: the quality or state of being redolent
2
: scent entry 1 sense 1b, aroma
Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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