Putrid Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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putrid
[ˈpjuːtrɪd ]
Definitions
smell
Decomposed and foul-smelling; rotten.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
Word | Description / Examples |
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putrid |
Typically used to describe something that is decayed and emits a very unpleasant smell. Often associated with decomposition and very negative contexts.
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rotten |
Describes food or organic matter that has decayed. Often used in everyday situations to describe fruit, vegetables, or meat that are no longer good to eat.
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rancid |
Used mainly to describe fats or oils that have gone bad and developed an unpleasant smell or taste. Often encountered in cooking or food storage contexts.
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spoiled |
Used to describe food that is no longer fresh or has gone bad, but not necessarily decayed to the point of being putrid. It can also be used metaphorically to describe someone who has been pampered excessively.
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Examples of usage
- The putrid smell of rotten eggs filled the room.
- The garbage left in the sun for days had become putrid.
disgusting
Extremely unpleasant; repulsive.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
Word | Description / Examples |
---|---|
putrid |
Used to describe a strong, unpleasant smell, often from decaying or rotting matter.
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disgusting |
General term for something that causes strong feelings of dislike or revulsion, typically relating to anything repellent to senses or morality.
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foul |
Used to describe something with an extremely offensive smell, or an action that is morally repulsive.
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revolting |
Refers to something that causes a strong feeling of disgust, often visual or in reference to an idea or behavior.
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Examples of usage
- The putrid taste of the food made him gag.
- She couldn't stand the putrid sight of the decaying animal.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Biology
- Putrid smells often come from bacteria breaking down organic matter, which is essential for nutrient recycling in ecosystems.
- Certain anaerobic bacteria thrive in putrid conditions, helping to break down waste where oxygen is scarce.
Literature
- The word appears in classic works of literature to describe decay, exemplifying themes of mortality and disgust.
- Many authors use 'putrid' to evoke strong sensory responses, helping readers visualize scenes of decay and neglect.
Cultural References
- 'Putrid' is often used in horror films and literature to create an atmosphere of dread or decay, enhancing the feeling of fear.
- In culinary contexts, the term can describe spoiled food, signaling a clear warning about health risks.
Psychology
- Our aversion to putrid odors is a survival instinct, protecting us from potentially harmful substances.
- The smell of decay has been shown to trigger strong emotional responses, often linked with memories and feelings of disgust.
Origin of 'putrid'
Main points about word origin
- The word comes from the Latin 'putridus', meaning 'rotten' or 'decayed'.
- Its roots can be traced back to the Proto-Indo-European word '*peu-', which means 'to rot' or 'to be rotten'.
The word 'putrid' originates from the Latin word 'putridus', meaning rotten or decayed. It has been used in English since the late 16th century to describe things that are in a state of decay or decomposition, emitting a foul odor. Over time, 'putrid' has come to be associated with anything extremely unpleasant or repulsive.
Word Frequency Rank
Positioned at #20,604, this word is part of extensive vocabulary. It's relatively rare in general usage but may be important in specific fields or formal writing.
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- 20601 misinterpretation
- 20602 silencing
- 20603 domestication
- 20604 putrid
- 20605 boxer
- 20606 eroding
- 20607 centenary
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