Stinking: meaning, definitions and examples

Etymology

• The word comes from Old English 'stincan', which means to emit a smell.
• It has roots in Proto-Germanic and potentially even in Proto-Indo-European, highlighting its ancient usage.
• Over time, the term evolved in different languages yet remained linked to unpleasant odors.

Cultural References

• In literature, foul smells often symbolize decay or moral corruption, as seen in various classic novels.
• The phrase 'stinking rich' illustrates how 'stinking' can be used metaphorically to describe someone who has a lot of money, hinting at excess or greed.
• Comedy often plays with smells for humor, showcasing characters reacting dramatically to bad odors.

Science

• Certain bacteria produce sulfur compounds, which are a common cause of foul smells – think rotten eggs.
• Sniffing 'stinking' sources can sometimes trigger aversive reactions, as our brains associate them with potential danger.
• The olfactory system processes these odors quickly, making bad smells one of the quickest ways to evoke unpleasant feelings.

Psychology

• Bad smells can influence mood, with many studies showing that unpleasant odors can lead to increased anxiety and discomfort.
• There's a fascinating link between smell and memory; certain stinky odors can evoke strong memories or feelings from the past.
• People often develop a social stigma around certain smells, leading to discussions about cleanliness and social standards.

Pop Culture

• In movies, the comedic use of 'stinking' can exaggerate reactions, leading to humorous moments when characters encounter bad odors.
• Animated characters often have gag reflexes in response to smells, creating iconic scenes in children's cartoons.
• Songs and jokes often refer to 'stinks' or 'bad smells' as a humorous way to express annoyance or dissatisfaction.

Positioned at #20,121, this word is part of extensive vocabulary. It's relatively rare in general usage but may be important in specific fields or formal writing.

• ...
• 20118 unadjusted
• 20119 indestructible
• 20120 defaced
• 20121 stinking
• 20122 fluted
• 20123 compactness
• 20124 gnawing
• ...