skunky

adjective

ˈskəŋ-kē 

skunkier; skunkiest

: having a rancid smell or taste suggestive of a skunk

skunky beer

Examples of skunky in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Fowler pointed to prenylthiol as the compound most likely responsible for the traditional skunky smell that turns some noses away entirely. — Peter Su, Forbes.com, 10 Aug. 2026

But though marigolds are certainly colorful, many types have an unpleasant scent that is almost skunky. — Brandee Gruener, Southern Living, 27 July 2026

In recent years, that strong signature skunky funk of pot has given way to scent profiles of new cannabis strains that skew toward fruits, fresh herbs and candy. — Pien Huang, NPR, 25 Mar. 2025

Sour Diesel, on the other hand, offers a classic skunky scent that many cannabis enthusiasts adore. — Rowan Briggs, The Mercury News, 15 Jan. 2025

Word History

First Known Use

1868, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for skunky

• chunky
• funky
• hunky
• junkie
• monkey
• spunky