Redolent
adjective /ˈred.ə.lənt/ — Strongly evocative of a smell or quality
Definition
Having a strong, characteristic smell — or more figuratively, strongly evocative or suggestive of something. A room can be redolent of old wood; a phrase can be redolent of another era.
Beyond the definition
The way smell crosses directly into memory and feeling. To be redolent is to carry an entire atmosphere in a fragrance.
Origin & history
From Latin 'redolere' (to emit a scent) — 're' (intensifier) + 'olere' (to smell). Something redolent emits smell continuously and strongly.
Example sentences
Illustrative sentences for learning, not verified community posts or sourced quotations.
The attic was redolent of lavender and old paper — someone's whole life in one inhalation.
His manner was redolent of an earlier era when manners were a form of care.
The wine was redolent of dark fruit and rain — a smell that told you the story of its year.
How to use it
This entry uses an adjective. Follow the examples for the nouns it describes and its position in the sentence.
Choose “Redolent” when the meaning fits your context: Having a strong, characteristic smell — or more figuratively, strongly evocative or suggestive of something. A room can be redolent of old wood; a phrase can be redolent of another era.
Synonyms
Antonyms
odourless, inexpressive, bland
Related words
Questions about this word
What does "Redolent" mean?
Redolent is adjective meaning: Strongly evocative of a smell or quality. Having a strong, characteristic smell — or more figuratively, strongly evocative or suggestive of something. A room can be redolent of old wood; a phrase can be redolent of another era.
Where does the word "Redolent" come from?
From Latin 'redolere' (to emit a scent) — 're' (intensifier) + 'olere' (to smell). Something redolent emits smell continuously and strongly.