stench

noun

1
: stink
2
: a characteristic repugnant quality
stenchful adjective
stenchy adjective

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
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.
Most of the grand-jury-level stench has emanated from gubernatorial appointees to Orlando-area boards. Scott Maxwell, The Orlando Sentinel, 17 July 2025 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, 10 July 2025 Some piles stretched down an entire city block, creating an overwhelming stench in the summer heat, the outlet reported. Stephen Sorace, FOXNews.com, 8 July 2025 The infamous 'Southside stench' of rotten eggs and burning oil permeates homes near the Metalworking Lubricants Co. south of downtown. Ryan Murphy, IndyStar, 2 July 2025 See All Example Sentences for stench

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

Time Traveler
The first known use of stench was before the 12th century

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Stench.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/stench. Accessed 25 Jul. 2025.

Kids Definition

stench

noun
: a very disagreeable smell : stink sense 1

More from Merriam-Webster on stench

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!