redolence

noun

ˈre-də-lən(t)s How to pronounce redolence (audio)
Definition of redolencenext
1
as in scent
a sweet or pleasant smell breathed in the redolence of the apple orchard

Synonyms & Similar Words

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Antonyms & Near Antonyms
2
as in smell
the quality of a thing that makes it perceptible to the sense organs in the nose the redolence of fir trees always reminds me of Christmas

Synonyms & Similar Words

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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 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 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
Recent Examples of Synonyms for redolence
  1. scent
  2. smell
  3. fragrance
  4. aroma
Noun
  • They are well documented in insects and other animals, and some pheromones do not have a discernible scent, Scientific American explained.
    — Teresa Mull, FOXNews.com, 29 Aug. 2026
  • Nobody loves bug bites, or the scent of being doused in bug spray.
    — ABC News, ABC News, 29 Aug. 2026
Definition of scent
Noun
  • The smell of freshly ground espresso and incense fills the air, and staff speak to patients in hushed, discreet tones, almost as if discussing state secrets.
    — Christopher Elliott, Forbes.com, 29 Aug. 2026
  • The smell of rubber and oil remains in the air, and the sound of workers changing tires combines with music from a DJ inside the shop’s waiting room.
    — Michael Wayland, CNBC, 29 Aug. 2026
Definition of smell
Noun
  • Lavender Lavender is a popular garden perennial for its pleasantly calming fragrance and profuse purple blooms.
    — Alexandra Jones, The Spruce, 30 Aug. 2026
  • This pretty fixture works hard as a table lamp, candle warmer, and decor piece, offering a smoke-free way to add ambient light and fragrance to your space without the fire hazard.
    — Better Homes & Gardens, Better Homes & Gardens, 28 Aug. 2026
Definition of fragrance
Noun
  • The rice is stirred over medium heat for a few minutes, giving the grains time to become opaque or lightly golden and release a toasty, nutty aroma.
    — Katie Rosenhouse, Southern Living, 26 Aug. 2026
  • The specific compounds responsible for the classic smoky aroma of a campfire – phenolic compounds like guaiacol and syringol – are highly reactive.
    — Michael A. Robinson, The Conversation, 25 Aug. 2026
Definition of aroma

Browse Nearby Words

redoing
redolence
redolences
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Cite this Entry

“Redolence.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/redolence. Accessed 31 Aug. 2026.

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