fragrant

adjective

ˈfrā-grənt How to pronounce fragrant (audio)
Definition of fragrantnext
as in aromatic
having a pleasant smell the balsam fir is a favorite as a Christmas tree because it is so fragrant

Synonyms & Similar Words

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Antonyms & Near Antonyms

Synonym Chooser

How does the adjective fragrant contrast with its synonyms?

Some common synonyms of fragrant are aromatic, odorous, and redolent. While all these words mean "emitting and diffusing scent," fragrant applies to things (such as flowers or spices) with sweet or agreeable odors.

a fragrant rose

When might aromatic be a better fit than fragrant?

The meanings of aromatic and fragrant largely overlap; however, aromatic applies to things emitting pungent often fresh odors.

an aromatic blend of tobaccos

When is it sensible to use odorous instead of fragrant?

The synonyms odorous and fragrant 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 redolent a more appropriate choice than fragrant?

The words redolent and fragrant are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, 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 fragrant Phenomenal™ lavender thrives where other lavender plants fail – tolerating humidity, heat, and even clay soil, all while producing mounds of fragrant foliage and dazzling blooms. — Kim Toscano, Southern Living, 20 Aug. 2026 Fireplaces are stocked with fragrant piñon wood, making winter stays especially cozy, while silk covers conceal TVs and handmade Le Creuset dishware keep modern amenities from disrupting the mood. — Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 19 Aug. 2026 Basil’s tiny purple or white flowers look pretty, but allowing the plants to bloom continuously can take energy away from growing more fragrant, tender leaves. — Alexandra Jones, The Spruce, 12 Aug. 2026 Choose from a cliffside breakfast corner, a shaded patio, or a fragrant garden that includes herb bushes and citrus trees. — Monica Mendal, Vogue, 10 Aug. 2026 See All Example Sentences for fragrant
Recent Examples of Synonyms for fragrant
  1. aromatic
  2. scented
Adjective
  • In contrast, lower-temperature smoldering wildfires release a different mix of compounds, but it is still enriched with toxic aromatic oxygenates and ammonia, which can irritate the respiratory system.
    — Michael A. Robinson, The Conversation, 25 Aug. 2026
  • Citruses, like bergamot and orange rind, give vanilla a bright and airy lightness, whereas aromatic notes, like lavender and geranium, smell like a garden growing around vanilla orchid vines.
    — Ariel Wodarcyk, InStyle, 25 Aug. 2026
Definition of aromatic
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

Browse Nearby Words

fragrancy
fragrant
frail
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Cite this Entry

“Fragrant.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/fragrant. Accessed 2 Sep. 2026.

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