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Stinking: meaning, definitions and examples

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stinking

 

[ ˈstɪŋkɪŋ ]

Adjective
Context #1 | Adjective

bad smell

Stinking describes something that has a very unpleasant or offensive odor. This term is often used to describe decaying organic matter, garbage, or foul bodily odors. The word evokes a strong sense of disgust and is commonly used in both literal and figurative contexts. For instance, when referring to a bad smell in the environment or in specific situations, it conveys an immediate aversion.

Synonyms

foul, malodorous, odoriferous, putrid, smelly.

Examples of usage

  • The stinking garbage filled the air with a foul odor.
  • He complained about the stinking fish left out in the sun.
  • I couldn't stand the stinking socks after the hike.

Translations

Translations of the word "stinking" in other languages:

🇵🇹 fedorento

🇮🇳 सड़ांधदार

🇩🇪 stinkend

🇮🇩 busuk

🇺🇦 погано пахнучий

🇵🇱 śmierdzący

🇯🇵 悪臭のする

🇫🇷 puant

🇪🇸 apestoso

🇹🇷 kötü kokulu

🇰🇷 악취 나는

🇸🇦 ذو رائحة كريهة

🇨🇿 smradlavý

🇸🇰 smradľavý

🇨🇳 发臭的

🇸🇮 smrdljiv

🇮🇸 fúll

🇰🇿 сасық

🇬🇪 მგრძნობიარე

🇦🇿 içəriyəni

🇲🇽 apestoso

Etymology

The term 'stinking' derives from the verb 'stink,' which originated from the Old English word 'stincan,' meaning 'to emit a smell.' This word has Germanic roots, with similar forms found in various Germanic languages. Its evolution can be traced back to Proto-Germanic *stinkwōną, which refers to a strong smell, typically an unpleasant one. The adjective form 'stinking' began to be used in the English language around the 14th century to describe things that emit this offensive odor. Over time, 'stinking' became a versatile word, not only used to describe actual smells but also deployed metaphorically to express disapproval or disgust in various contexts, expanding its usage in contemporary language.

Word Frequency Rank

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.