stench

noun

ˈstench 

1

: stink

2

: a characteristic repugnant quality

the stench of corruption

stenchful

ˈstench-fəl 

adjective

stenchy

ˈsten-chē 

adjective

Synonyms of stench

• stink
• reek

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

But lesser risks related to the growing stench persist. — Alex Wigglesworth, Los Angeles Times, 25 June 2026

In punishing heat, more people wore masks as the stench of decomposition spread. — Regina Cano Garcia, Chicago Tribune, 27 June 2026

Moreover, even when placed in packing bags, shoes (and even swimwear) can lend less-than-ideal stench to your luggage, and bar soap can help stave off the unpleasantness, so that every outfit feels freshly washed. — Kaitlyn Yarborough, Southern Living, 19 June 2026

The overwhelming stench lingered for weeks, and health officials routinely reminded Kansas Citians that the odor did not carry any disease. — Kansas City Public Library Staff, Kansas City Star, 1 July 2026

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

Rhymes for stench

• clench
• drench
• quench
• tench
• trench
• wench
• wrench
• entrench
• retrench
• workbench

Kids Definition

stench

noun

ˈstench 

: a very disagreeable smell : stink sense 1