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 These preparations are commonly incorporated into teas, bebedizos, and aromatic baths. — Tiana Randall, Forbes.com, 20 Aug. 2026 Yes, there are definitely margaritas (try the excellent frozen Al Pastor rendition) but also much more, like the Epazote—an aromatic tequila gimlet (below). — Alana Al-Hatlani, Southern Living, 20 Aug. 2026 Add the curry paste and cook, stirring actively, until the paste becomes pleasingly aromatic and no longer smells raw, 2 to 3 minutes. — Kate Bradshaw, Mercury News, 18 Aug. 2026 Cedar lends the most intense, aromatic flavor to salmon, but other woods are also excellent for plank-grilling. — Karla Walsh, Better Homes & Gardens, 13 Aug. 2026 See All Example Sentences for aromatic

Recent Examples of Synonyms for aromatic

Adjective

Cook for approximately 2-3 minutes, stirring frequently, until the onion becomes translucent and the garlic is fragrant.

— ABC News, ABC News, 24 Aug. 2026
In a large dry skillet toast guajillo and ancho chiles over medium, turning occasionally, until lightly toasted and fragrant, 3 to 4 minutes.

— Katlyn Moncada, Better Homes & Gardens, 24 Aug. 2026

Definition of fragrant

Adjective

The instrument, called a coronagraph, is so sensitive to contamination that I was given a list of things forbidden from entering the hallowed space — no makeup, lotion or scented products of any kind could be on my skin.

— Ashley Strickland, CNN Money, 29 Aug. 2026
This month, a pack of three seasonally scented bottles is $3 off, as is the classic French Scent spray bottle set with two refill bottles.

— Kait Hanson, Southern Living, 28 Aug. 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 1 Sep. 2026.

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Synonyms of aromatic

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