stench

noun

ˈstench 

1

: stink

2

: a characteristic repugnant quality

stenchful

ˈstench-fəl 

adjective

stenchy

ˈsten-chē 

adjective

Synonyms

• funk
• reek
• stink

Examples of stench in a Sentence

the stench of rotting meat

we finally discovered the dead rat that was causing the stench in the basement

Recent Examples on the Web

Meanwhile, residents said odors have been especially bad in recent weeks, despite their efforts to mitigate the nauseating stench that seeps into their homes. —Tammy Murga, San Diego Union-Tribune, 12 May 2024

The stench of bitter instant coffee wafted throughout the room. —Hoda Sherif, TIME, 10 May 2024

Word History

Etymology

Middle English, from Old English stenc; akin to Old English stincan to emit a smell — more at stink

First Known Use

before the 12th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Kids Definition

stench

noun

ˈstench 

: a very disagreeable smell : stink sense 1