Learn the language of scent

Fragrance Ingredient Glossary

An illustrated guide to 113 key perfumery ingredients across 13 scent families — what each one actually smells like, and every fragrance in our database that features it.

Citrus

Bright, zesty oils pressed from peel and rind. They open a fragrance with sparkle and lift, then fade fast — the classic top-note family.

Fruity

Juicy, mouth-watering accents beyond citrus. They add brightness, sweetness and a modern, playful appeal.

Green & Aromatic

Crisp herbs, leaves and stems. They bring freshness, lift and a natural, outdoorsy feel — the backbone of fougère and aromatic colognes.

Floral

The romantic heart of perfumery. Petals and blossoms give a fragrance its fullness, elegance and emotional pull.

White Floral

Opulent, creamy blossoms with a heady, sensual richness — the most intense and divisive flowers in perfumery.

Spicy

Warm, piquant notes that add energy, depth and an exotic kick — from sparkling pepper to fiery cinnamon.

Woody

Dry, warm and grounding materials. Woods give a fragrance its structure, smoothness and lasting depth.

Amber & Resinous

Golden, balsamic warmth from tree resins and ambery accords — the cozy, glowing base of oriental perfumes.

Oud & Leather

Dark, animalic and luxurious materials prized across the Gulf for their depth, drama and staying power.

Musk & Animalic

Sensual, skin-like materials that add warmth, diffusion and an intimate trail — the glue that makes a scent feel alive.

Gourmand

Edible, dessert-like sweetness — the comforting, addictive flavors of the perfume world.

Powdery

Soft, cosmetic and comforting notes that feel like fine face powder and clean, dressed skin.

Marine & Ozonic

Airy, watery and breezy notes that evoke sea spray, fresh air and open skies — the most modern of the families.