Fragrance Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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fragrance

[หˆfreษชษกrษ™ns ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

smell

A pleasant, sweet smell, especially from a plant, flower, or perfume.

Synonyms

aroma, perfume, scent.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
fragrance

Often used to describe pleasant smells, typically in the context of flowers, nature, or perfumes. It has a positive connotation.

  • The fragrance of the blooming roses filled the garden
  • She selected a new fragrance for her collection
aroma

Frequently used to describe pleasant smells associated with food or beverages, though it can also refer to pleasant smells in general. It has a positive connotation.

  • The aroma of freshly baked bread made everyone's mouths water
  • The rich aroma of the coffee was intoxicating
scent

Can be used more broadly to describe any kind of smell, pleasant or unpleasant. It is often used in the context of nature, animals, or subtle smells. It can have either a positive or neutral connotation.

  • The scent of pine trees reminded him of Christmas
  • The hound caught the scent and started to track the trail
perfume

Used specifically for liquids designed to give a pleasant smell to a person's body, usually in the context of personal hygiene or beauty products.

  • She sprayed a bit of perfume on her wrists before leaving home
  • He gifted her a bottle of expensive French perfume

Examples of usage

  • The fragrance of the flowers filled the room.
  • She wore a fragrance that reminded him of summer.
Context #2 | Noun

cosmetics

A liquid substance with a pleasant smell, used to give a pleasant smell to the body or clothes.

Synonyms

aroma, perfume, scent.

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Word Description / Examples
fragrance

Generally used to describe a nice or pleasant smell, particularly that of flowers, nature, or sometimes products like candles. It's often associated with a soothing and refreshing quality.

  • The fragrance of blooming roses filled the garden
perfume

Refers specifically to a manufactured liquid that people apply to their bodies to smell nice. It can also describe the scent of this liquid when detected in the air.

  • She wore a delicate perfume that lingered in the room
scent

A general term for any smell, whether pleasant or unpleasant. It is often used when talking about both natural and artificial smells. It can also describe subtle or faint smells.

  • The dog followed the scent trail through the park
aroma

Often used when talking about food and beverages, especially to indicate a strong and pleasant smell that whets the appetite. It can also refer to the smell of coffee, bread, or spices.

  • The aroma of freshly baked bread was irresistible

Examples of usage

  • She sprayed on some fragrance before going out.
  • The fragrance of the perfume lasted all day.
Context #3 | Noun

figurative

A quality or atmosphere that is felt by someone.

Synonyms

atmosphere, aura, vibe.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
fragrance

Best used when describing pleasant smells, typically related to perfumes, flowers, or aromatic substances.

  • The fragrance of roses filled the room
  • I love the fragrance of freshly baked cookies
atmosphere

It relates to describing the surrounding mood or feel of a place, rather than a smell. It's often used in discussions about the emotional or aesthetic quality of an environment.

  • The cafe had a cozy atmosphere
  • The atmosphere at the party was electric
aura

Often used to describe a distinctive quality or feeling that seems to surround a person, place, or thing. It can be both positive and negative depending on the situation.

  • She has an aura of confidence
  • The ancient ruins had a mysterious aura
vibe

Informally used to describe the emotional feeling or mood projected by a person or environment. It is commonly used in casual conversations.

  • I get a good vibe from this place
  • He has a really chill vibe

Examples of usage

  • The fragrance of nostalgia filled the air.
  • The fragrance of success surrounded him.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Science

  • The sense of smell is closely linked to memory; certain fragrances can trigger vivid memories or emotions.
  • Fragrance molecules are tiny enough to enter our noses and interact with olfactory receptors, creating the sensation of smell.
  • Research indicates that pleasant scents can reduce stress and improve mood, showcasing their psychological benefits.

Cultural Significance

  • In many cultures, certain fragrances are used in rituals or spiritual practices to promote relaxation or a sense of peace.
  • Perfume-making has been a celebrated art form for centuries, especially in places like France and the Middle East.
  • Scents from nature, like sandalwood and jasmine, have been valued for their beauty and symbolism in various traditions.

Pop Culture

  • Perfume plays a significant role in character development in literature and films, often symbolizing attraction or personality.
  • Celebrity fragrances have become a trend, with many famous figures launching their own signature scents.
  • Popular scents often influence fashion trends, shaping how we perceive style and attractiveness in society.

Psychology

  • Certain scents, like lavender and vanilla, are believed to have calming effects on the brain and can reduce anxiety.
  • Fragrance marketing leverages emotional connections, with retailers using pleasant smells to enhance the shopping experience.
  • Studies show that scent preferences can vary widely between individuals, influenced by personal experiences and cultural backgrounds.

Origin of 'fragrance'

Main points about word origin

  • The word 'fragrance' comes from the Latin word 'fragrantia', which means 'sweet-smelling'.
  • It entered the English language in the 14th century, highlighting the importance of scent in culture.
  • Related terms in other languages, like 'fragrance' in French (fragrance) and 'fragancia' in Spanish, show its rich global connection.

The word 'fragrance' originated from the Latin word 'fragrantia', which means 'sweet smell'. Fragrances have been used for centuries in various cultures for perfumes, aromatherapy, and religious ceremonies. The art of creating fragrances has evolved over time, with the development of modern perfumery techniques and the use of natural and synthetic ingredients.


See also: fragrant.

Word Frequency Rank

Ranked #12,385, this word falls into high-advanced vocabulary. It appears less frequently but is valuable for expressing precise meanings in specific contexts.