Synonym Chooser

How does the noun redolence differ from other similar words?

Some common synonyms of redolence are fragrance, perfume, and scent. While all these words mean "a sweet or pleasant odor," redolence implies a mixture of fragrant or pungent odors.

the redolence of a forest after a rain

Where would fragrance be a reasonable alternative to redolence?

While in some cases nearly identical to redolence, fragrance suggests the odors of flowers or other growing things.

the fragrance of pine

In what contexts can perfume take the place of redolence?

The words perfume and redolence are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, perfume may suggest a stronger or heavier odor.

the perfume of lilacs

How do scent and perfume relate to one another, in the sense of redolence?

Scent is very close to perfume but of wider application because more neutral in connotation.

scent-free soaps

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 redolence The Russian army has focused on, and even mythologized, tank warfare for decades for its redolence of Russian victories over the Nazis in World War II. Andrew E. Kramer, New York Times, 1 Mar. 2023 This version is especially pared down, relying mostly on the bones, which are boiled over multiple hours to imbue the broth with fatty redolence. New York Times, 13 June 2022 To celebrate the occasion, Green’s son, Grant Green Jr. — a guitarist of cool, unhurried disposition, bearing the striking redolence of his father’s style — leads an all-star band at Jazz Standard. New York Times, 28 June 2018 This new sound often bears the markings of calypso, Afrobeat, grime and drum ’n’ bass, plus the spiritual jazz of the 1960s and ’70s, and an abiding redolence of Indian classical. Giovanni Russonello, New York Times, 29 Aug. 2017 A huge pot bubbles on the stove at the yellow guest house for hours, filling the air with the cloying redolence of burning tires. Cheryl Katz, Smithsonian, 17 Jan. 2017
Recent Examples of Synonyms for redolence
Noun
  • They're known for having a sweet, warm and slightly spicy scent similar to cinnamon or nutmeg, and are commonly consumed in ground form as a spice added to recipes.
    Hannah Yasharoff, USA Today, 13 June 2025
  • Botanical Name: Mentha Sun Exposure: Full sun to partial shade Soil Type: Moist, well-draining Soil pH: Neutral 08 of 11 Petunias These colorful annuals have an unusual scent that flies seem to hate.
    Mary Marlowe Leverette, Southern Living, 13 June 2025
Noun
  • Beyond their novelty value, these additives can hide the taste and smell of condoms and lube, which some find off-putting.
    MD Published, Verywell Health, 6 June 2025
  • The variant has similar symptoms to other strains, including fever or chills, cough, shortness of breath or difficulty breathing, sore throat, congestion or a runny nose, new loss of taste or smell, fatigue, muscle or body aches, headache, nausea or vomiting.
    Mary Walrath-Holdridge, USA Today, 5 June 2025
Noun
  • Below, see some of the best face and body sunscreens, hair care, fragrances, hair tools and sun care products on sale for up to 50 percent off at Nordstrom, and shop the full beauty blowout here.
    Danielle Directo-Meston, HollywoodReporter, 13 June 2025
  • From scented oils and lotions to body sprays, hair fragrances, and perfumes, fragrance routines have become the freshest way to create a signature scent.
    Essence, Essence, 12 June 2025
Noun
  • On a warm summer night, the presence of two huge bakeries seven blocks apart on Edmondson Avenue must have made for some sweet aromas.
    Jacques Kelly, Baltimore Sun, 7 June 2025
  • This cake is delicate and tender, with sweetness and coconut aroma that cuts all the way through.
    Kimberly Holland, Southern Living, 5 June 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Redolence.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/redolence. Accessed 18 Jun. 2025.

More from Merriam-Webster on redolence

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