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.
Gro-Low sumac (Rhus aromatica ‘Gro-Low’) is a selection of a fragrant sumac, made by Synnestvedt Nursery in Illinois.—Tim Johnson, Chicago Tribune, 31 Jan. 2026 This evergreen shrub has leathery evergreen leaves and fragrant yellow flowers in late winter to early spring, followed by grape-like fruits in summer.—Arricca Elin Sansone, Southern Living, 31 Jan. 2026 In its native environment, the black locust can be a boon, providing edible, fragrant flowers and slow-decaying wood for fence posts or decking.—Jennifer Lobb, Martha Stewart, 30 Jan. 2026 The creamy and fragrant coconut curry, with its springy egg noodles and tender dark chicken, was proof that Kiin Di has made the expansive shift with grace.—Matthew Odam, Austin American Statesman, 29 Jan. 2026 See All Example Sentences for fragrant
Word History
Etymology
Middle English, from Latin fragrant-, fragrans, from present participle of fragrare to be fragrant