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
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.
In general, hostas with yellow foliage or fragrant flowers are the most sun tolerant.—Tim Johnson, Chicago Tribune, 16 May 2026 Guiding us through the site, which was filled with a stunning profusion of brilliantly red poppies and fragrant chamomile flowers, was a local archeologist who lives and works at the site, and whose Turkish commentary was deftly translated for us by our charming guide.—Paul Brady, Travel + Leisure, 15 May 2026 Red onion adds pungency while a couple of tablespoons of fresh, feathery dill bring a cooling, fragrant burst of freshness to the dish.—Martha Stewart, 15 May 2026 Lilies can be described in many ways—fragrant, colorful, striking—but deadly is rarely the first word that comes to mind.—Encyclopedia Britannica, 15 May 2026 See All Example Sentences for fragrant
Word History
Etymology
Middle English, from Latin fragrant-, fragrans, from present participle of fragrare to be fragrant