odorous applies to whatever has a strong distinctive smell whether pleasant or unpleasant.
odorous cheeses should be tightly wrapped
fragrant applies to things (such as flowers or spices) with sweet or agreeable odors.
a fragrant rose
redolent applies usually to a place or thing impregnated with odors.
the kitchen was redolent of garlic and tomatoes
aromatic applies to things emitting pungent often fresh odors.
an aromatic blend of tobaccos
Examples of fragrant in a Sentence
The soup was fragrant with herbs and spices.
the balsam fir is a favorite as a Christmas tree because it is so fragrant
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Add the garlic and cook, stirring occasionally, until very fragrant and starting to brown, about 2 minutes.—The Washington Post, San Diego Union-Tribune, 31 Dec. 2025 Ideal for border gardens or areas with deciduous plants that lose leaves in the fall, evergreens come in a diverse range, from fragrant gardenias to shade-loving rhododendrons.—Megan Hughes, Better Homes & Gardens, 31 Dec. 2025 For whites, think fragrant examples from Sicily’s grillo grapes and Spain’s godello.—Bloomberg, Mercury News, 31 Dec. 2025 The earthiness of the black-eyed peas and collards perfectly contrasts the fragrant rosemary and lemon.—Kimberly Holland, Southern Living, 30 Dec. 2025 See All Example Sentences for fragrant
Word History
Etymology
Middle English, from Latin fragrant-, fragrans, from present participle of fragrare to be fragrant
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