Redolence - English Definition & Meaning

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Definition

"Redolence" refers to a pleasant or sweet smell; it's the state of being fragrant or aromatic. It often suggests a lingering or pervasive scent that evokes memories or associations. Think of the redolence of spices in a spice market 🌢️ or the redolence of old books in a library πŸ“š. It's more than just a simple fragrance; it's a rich and evocative scent. Redolence can transport you to another time or place. It’s the quality of emitting a strong, pleasant odor.

Etymology

The word "redolence" comes from the Latin word "redolens," which is the present participle of "redolere," meaning "to emit a scent." The prefix "red-" means "again," and "olere" means "to smell." So, "redolence" literally means "smelling again" or "emitting a strong scent." The etymology highlights the persistent and pervasive nature of the scent.

Related Words

Examples

  • "The redolence of pine filled the mountain air."
  • "The room had a redolence of old leather and tobacco."
  • "The redolence of spices hung in the market."
  • "The redolence of lavender calmed her nerves."

Anecdote / Story

In "The Great Gatsby," the green light across the bay is associated with the redolence of Daisy's perfume for Gatsby. The scent becomes a symbol of his longing and idealized past. It shows how redolence can be tied to powerful memories and emotions. Smell is a powerful symbol.

Encouragement

Appreciate the redolence of your favorite places and things! Notice how scents can evoke memories and emotions. Explore different scents and discover the ones that create a sense of comfort and nostalgia for you. ✨

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