SCENT Synonyms: 91 Similar and Opposite Words

Q: How does the noun 'scent' differ from other similar words?

Some common synonyms of scent are fragrance , perfume , and redolence . While all these words mean "a sweet or pleasant odor," scent is very close to perfume but of wider application because more neutral in connotation. // scent -free soaps

Q: When might 'fragrance' be a better fit than 'scent'?

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

Q: Where would 'perfume' be a reasonable alternative to 'scent'?

The meanings of perfume and scent largely overlap; however, perfume may suggest a stronger or heavier odor. // the perfume of lilacs

Q: When is it sensible to use 'redolence' instead of 'scent'?

In some situations, the words redolence and scent are roughly equivalent. However, redolence implies a mixture of fragrant or pungent odors. // the redolence of a forest after a rain

scent 1 of 2

noun

ˈsent

Definition of scent next

as in fragrance

a sweet or pleasant smell the delightful scent of her perfume

Synonyms & Similar Words

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Antonyms & Near Antonyms

as in smell

the quality of a thing that makes it perceptible to the sense organs in the nose dogs are able to detect scents that are far below the threshold detectable by the human nose

Synonyms & Similar Words

scent

2 of 2

verb

as in to perfume

to fill or infuse with a pleasant odor or odor-releasing substance fancy bars of soap scented with lavender

Synonyms & Similar Words

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

as in to smell

to become aware of by means of the sense organs in the nose the dog scented a rabbit and suddenly took off

Synonyms & Similar Words

as in to sense

to have a vague awareness of he scented danger

Synonyms & Similar Words

Synonym Chooser

How does the noun scent differ from other similar words?

Some common synonyms of scent are fragrance, perfume, and redolence. While all these words mean "a sweet or pleasant odor," scent is very close to perfume but of wider application because more neutral in connotation.

scent-free soaps

When might fragrance be a better fit than scent?

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

the fragrance of pine

Where would perfume be a reasonable alternative to scent?

The meanings of perfume and scent largely overlap; however, perfume may suggest a stronger or heavier odor.

the perfume of lilacs

When is it sensible to use redolence instead of scent?

In some situations, the words redolence and scent are roughly equivalent. However, redolence implies a mixture of fragrant or pungent odors.

the redolence of a forest after a rain

Examples 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 scent

Noun

The same is true for the homey decor trend whose signature elements include soothing candles that give off a warming scent, rich textures like velvet, plenty of soft throw pillows, and multiple sources of light for a cozy ambience. —

Maria Sabella, Better Homes & Gardens, 1 Nov. 2024 These hand sanitizers come in a pack of five, providing you with a quick spritz of sweet scents and hydration. —

Mia Meltzer, Rolling Stone, 31 Oct. 2024

Verb

To reduce your risk, opt for candles scented with natural oils and made from natural materials like soy or beeswax. —

Sherri Gordon, Health, 3 Oct. 2024 Notes: Fresh, Floral, Woody Apotheke Earl Grey Bitters Candle $44 Apotheke Take the idea of a tea light to a whole new level with this Earl Grey scented three-wick candle that combines the smell of black tea leaves with bergamot, lemon zest, and peony. —

Megan Wahn, Architectural Digest, 18 Oct. 2024 See all Example Sentences for scent

Recent Examples of Synonyms for scent

Noun

Forbes Valuation Sean Combs was once on the path to becoming a billionaire thanks to his extensive music career, business ventures that included the Sean John fashion and fragrance lines and founding the Revolt TV network and since unrealized plans to become a cannabis mogul.

Antonio Pequeño IV, Forbes, 5 Nov. 2024
The fragrance references Art Deco, which was an obsession of Robert Ricci, the son of Nina Ricci.

Jennifer Weil, WWD, 5 Nov. 2024