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 next

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 True to her intention, Kouzeh has no tables as of yet, only the counter full of her masterworks, now numbering around 25, with a short menu of coffee and aromatic teas. —

Bill Addison, Los Angeles Times, 9 May 2026 The Spa is softly lit, cypress lined, curtain draped—truly a destination spa with thoughtful touches like aromatic neck pillows and custom tea blends. —

Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 7 May 2026 It is known for its aromatic foliage and colorful flowers. —

Farima Ferguson, The Spruce, 6 May 2026 With gray-green foliage and aromatic blooms that cover plants on and off from early summer to fall, catmint makes a perfect filler for any style of garden. —

Kim Toscano, Southern Living, 3 May 2026 See All Example Sentences for aromatic

Recent Examples of Synonyms for aromatic

Adjective

Pollinators are attracted to its fragrant white flowers.

— Patricia Shannon, Southern Living, 17 May 2026
In general, hostas with yellow foliage or fragrant flowers are the most sun tolerant.

— Tim Johnson, Chicago Tribune, 16 May 2026

Definition of fragrant

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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 20 May. 2026.

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Synonyms of aromatic

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