fragrance

American  

[frey-gruhns] / ˈfreɪ grəns /

noun

1. the quality of being fragrant; a sweet or pleasing scent.

2. perfume, cologne, toilet water, or the like.

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fragrance British  

/ ˈfreɪɡrəns /

noun

1. a pleasant or sweet odour; scent; perfume

2. the state of being fragrant

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Usage

What does fragrance mean? A fragrance is a pleasant scent, especially a somewhat strong one. Fragrance is especially associated with flowers.The scent of something that smells good is typically called a fragrance or an aroma, while the scent of something that smells bad is typically called an odor. However, fragrance is sometimes used in a somewhat ironic or humorous way to refer to a scent that is strong and not good, as in There’s a strange fragrance coming from the leftovers in the fridge.In the same way, the related adjective fragrant is most commonly used to describe things that have a strong, pleasant scent, as in These flowers are so fragrant. However, the word can also be used in a somewhat ironic or humorous way, as in Your socks are a bit fragrant.  The word fragrance can also be used to refer to the quality of being fragrant, as in This plant food claims to increase the flowers’ level of fragrance. Fragrance can also refer to a perfume or cologne, as in We have a wide selection of fragrances. The word is especially used this way in the marketing of perfumes.Example: I always look forward to springtime, when the fragrance of freshly bloomed flowers is in the air.

Related Words

See perfume.

Etymology

Origin of fragrance

First recorded in 1660–70; from French, from Late Latin frāgrantia. See fragrant, -ance

Example Sentences

Even as men’s shaving products and fragrances aligned with celebrities — think Johnny Depp for Dior’s Sauvage — have long been accepted, there’s been a cultural shift when it comes to beauty.

From Los Angeles Times

"In countries like Japan, Korea and China, there is more interest in things like flawless skin. In Europe fragrance is the main category, and in the US make-up is more popular," he said.

From BBC

The maker of CoverGirl cosmetics and Hugo Boss fragrances is resetting its supply chain to be able to respond to fast-changing consumer trends.

From The Wall Street Journal

We cut it down with a handsaw—slow work, but sweet as the wood released its piney-citrusy fragrance.

From The Wall Street Journal

“The No. 1 reason people come to our lots is the fragrance. They want that fresh pine smell throughout their home, and fake sprays don’t cut it.”

From Los Angeles Times