Part of Speech

Noun

Pronunciation

/ˈfreɪɡrəns/

Definitions

• 1. A pleasant, sweet, or flowery smell, often associated with perfumes or flowers.
• 2. A distinctive or characteristic odor, whether pleasant or unpleasant, particularly referring to perfumes or scents in the context of cosmetics or nature.
• 3. The quality or state of having a strong, pleasing scent, often associated with beauty, luxury, or nature.

Usage Examples

• "The fragrance of jasmine filled the room as the evening sun set."
• "She wore a perfume with a light fragrance of roses and lavender."
• "The fragrance of fresh bread wafted through the kitchen, making everyone's mouths water."

Etymology

The word "fragrance" comes from Middle French "fragrance," from Latin "fragrantia," meaning "a sweet smell," derived from "fragrare," meaning "to smell." The root "frag-" suggests something sweet-smelling, and the word has evolved to describe pleasant or desirable scents.

Synonyms

• Scent
• Perfume
• Aroma
• Odor
• Essence

Antonyms

• Stench
• Odor
• Fetidness
• Reek

Translations

Regional Pronunciation Variations

In English, the pronunciation of "fragrance" is generally consistent, though accents such as Received Pronunciation (British English) might pronounce the "a" sound slightly differently than General American English, which has a more pronounced "a" sound.

Historical Usage

Historically, fragrances have been used in various cultures for religious, medicinal, and aesthetic purposes. In ancient Egypt, fragrances were used in rituals and to honor gods. The word "fragrance" began being used in English in the late 16th century to describe pleasing smells, especially in the context of perfumes.

Cultural Nuances

The use and appreciation of fragrance have deep cultural significance across the world. In Western cultures, perfumes have long been associated with luxury and personal care. In Middle Eastern cultures, perfumes and incense are integral to social and spiritual life. In India, the use of fragrances in religious ceremonies is a significant aspect of spiritual life.

More Information

Fragrance has evolved into a multi-billion-dollar industry, with perfumes and scented products being essential components of personal care regimens worldwide. The art of perfume making, known as "perfumery," blends various essential oils and synthetic compounds to create distinctive scents. Perfume is often regarded as an expression of one's identity or mood, with different scents evoking different emotional responses.