PERFUME Synonyms: 21 Similar and Opposite Words

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

Some common synonyms of perfume are fragrance , redolence , and scent . While all these words mean "a sweet or pleasant odor," perfume may suggest a stronger or heavier odor. // the perfume of lilacs

Q: When would 'fragrance' be a good substitute for 'perfume'?

Although the words fragrance and perfume have much in common, fragrance suggests the odors of flowers or other growing things. // the fragrance of pine

Q: When could 'redolence' be used to replace 'perfume'?

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

Q: How are the words 'scent' and 'perfume' related?

Scent is very close to perfume but of wider application because more neutral in connotation. // scent -free soaps

perfume 1 of 2

noun

ˈpər-ˌfyüm

Definition of perfume

as in scent

a sweet or pleasant smell the perfume of fresh flowers filled the room

Synonyms & Similar Words

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Antonyms & Near Antonyms

perfume

2 of 2

verb

(ˌ)pər-ˈfyüm

as in to scent

to fill or infuse with a pleasant odor or odor-releasing substance roses perfumed the wedding chapel

Synonyms & Similar Words

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

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How does the noun perfume differ from other similar words?

Some common synonyms of perfume are fragrance, redolence, and scent. While all these words mean "a sweet or pleasant odor," perfume may suggest a stronger or heavier odor.

the perfume of lilacs

When would fragrance be a good substitute for perfume?

Although the words fragrance and perfume have much in common, fragrance suggests the odors of flowers or other growing things.

the fragrance of pine

When could redolence be used to replace perfume?

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

the redolence of a forest after a rain

How are the words scent and perfume related?

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 perfume

Noun

With the perfume of white truffles permeating the air, truffle producers, chefs, hunters, travelers and other food enthusiasts gather at Piazza Garibaldi for the event. — Irene S. Levine, Forbes.com, 15 Aug. 2026 The rich formula melts into my skin and makes my arms, legs, and hands feel as smooth as a baby’s bottom, while the indulgent pistachio and caramel scent pairs well with my go-to gourmand body mists and perfumes. — Alicia Geigel, Southern Living, 15 Aug. 2026

Verb

Fortunately, that something can be as easy as spicing it with ginger, perfuming it with florals or smoke, or easier still and our favorite version, adding a grapefruit peel to the shaker tin before shaking on ice. — Jeremy Repanich, Robb Report, 4 July 2026 The banana leaf protects the fish while allowing the cedar and oak smoke to gently perfume the salmon. — Staff, FOXNews.com, 3 July 2026 See All Example Sentences for perfume

Recent Examples of Synonyms for perfume

Noun

Anti Bast grounds saffron and warm cardamom (a fall spice rack classic) with incense absolute and amber, creating a warm, spicy scent ideal for cooler weather.

— Loren Savini, Allure, 22 Aug. 2026
Shop even more fall scents in the Better Homes & Gardens collection at Walmart.

— Sophia Beams, Better Homes & Gardens, 22 Aug. 2026

Definition of scent

Noun

And peony, while bringing a lightness to an otherwise darker slate of fragrance trends, still feels like a more sophisticated floral than an obvious rose.

— Loren Savini, Allure, 22 Aug. 2026
The launch is the inaugural step in Shiseido’s bigger strategy of building a credible reputation in fragrances for Max Mara, as executives teased other launches are on the way.

— Sandra Salibian, Footwear News, 21 Aug. 2026

Definition of fragrance

Noun

Set over medium heat and warm, stirring continuously to release the tea flavor, color and vanilla-like aroma.

— Kate Bradshaw, Mercury News, 18 Aug. 2026
This kit comes with an aroma sample and a felt diffuser—add a few drops of the Bergamot Tea Blossom scent to further enhance your bathing experience.

— Caroline Hughes, Travel + Leisure, 17 Aug. 2026

Definition of aroma

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performs

perfume

perfumed

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“Perfume.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/perfume. Accessed 24 Aug. 2026.

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Synonyms of perfume

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