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

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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

Best Prime Day Fragrance Deals—Up to 35% Off Prime Day is the perfect opportunity to snag the best deals on a new signature scent (or a few perfumes, for layering). — Conçetta Ciarlo, Vogue, 7 Oct. 2026 Shoppers are ditching sweet gourmand perfumes and candles for something that smells like a backyard garden, and the tomato leaf fragrance trend is leading that shift this spring and summer. — Lauren Jarvis-Gibson, Miami Herald, 6 Oct. 2026

Verb

Part of the exhibit is interactive, including a recreation of a Mexican-American family home and the garlic that would perfume the foods of a typical meal. — Tania Azhang, Sacbee.com, 17 Aug. 2026 Butterflies are drawn to the small, white flowers that cover plants in spring, perfuming the garden with their sweet fragrance. — Kim Toscano, Southern Living, 24 July 2026 See All Example Sentences for perfume

Recent Examples of Synonyms for perfume

Noun

These aren’t leather scents (new cars, edgy jackets, saddles), which have been done since 1781, when The House of Creed first made Royal English Leather for King George III.

— Margaux Anbouba, Vogue, 2 Oct. 2026
With consistent use, our top picks also helped improve the appearance of discoloration, bumps, and uneven tone, while offering a pleasant scent and comfortable wear.

— Glamour, Glamour, 2 Oct. 2026

Definition of scent

Noun

These casual spaces will draw you in with the aroma of baked cheese, usually with a barrel of buñuelos (perfectly round, crisp cheese balls) frying at the entrance.

— Nikkita Nair, Condé Nast Traveler, 7 Oct. 2026
Salt & Stone Santal & Vetiver Candle Salt & Stone’s best-selling santal and vetiver scent brings the aroma of a crackling bonfire, minus the excessive smoke inhalation.

— Audrey Lee, Architectural Digest, 7 Oct. 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 9 Oct. 2026.

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Synonyms of perfume

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