smellier; smelliest
Synonyms of smellynext
: having a smell
especially : malodorous
smelly socks

Examples of smelly in a Sentence

I don't like smelly cheese. your smelly sneakers are enough to raise the dead
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Empty your washing machine promptly at the end of every cycle to prevent bacteria growth and smelly odors from developing in your damp clothes, advises Palmer-Smith. Louise Parks, Martha Stewart, 4 Feb. 2026 Remedies like vinegar and baking soda can be used once a month or whenever towels start to become stiff or smelly. Patricia Shannon, Southern Living, 25 Jan. 2026 If the yellowing leaves are limp or mushy, or the soil is smelly, overwatering is the likely culprit. Leanne Potts, Better Homes & Gardens, 20 Jan. 2026 Kampot is also renowned for its durian, a tropical spiky fruit which—despite its pungent smell, often compared with smelly socks—is beloved for its sweet custardy taste. Vicky Smith, Forbes.com, 16 Jan. 2026 See All Example Sentences for smelly

Word History

First Known Use

1862, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of smelly was in 1862

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Smelly.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/smelly. Accessed 12 Feb. 2026.

Kids Definition

smelly

adjective
smellier; smelliest
: having a smell and especially a bad smell
smelly socks

More from Merriam-Webster on smelly

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