Daily Word • Learn, play, and grow your vocabulary
'Malodorous' describes something having a bad or unpleasant smell. It's a formal and slightly stronger way of saying 'smelly' or 'stinky.' It suggests the odor is offensive and noticeable. Think of it as the opposite of 'fragrant' or 'sweet-smelling.' It’s the kind of smell that makes you want to hold your breath or wrinkle your nose. Definitely not a pleasant experience.
The word 'malodorous' comes from the Latin words 'malus,' meaning 'bad,' and 'odor,' meaning 'smell.' It entered the English language in the 17th century. The combination clearly indicates a bad or unpleasant smell. It is a straightforward combination of Latin roots.
Remember the trash compactor scene in 'Star Wars: A New Hope'? Imagine the intensely malodorous conditions inside. The stench of rotting garbage, alien slime, and who-knows-what-else creates a truly disgusting environment. It's no wonder they were desperate to escape! Every frame probably stank.
Use 'malodorous' when you want to emphasize the unpleasantness of a smell! It's a strong and descriptive word that can really make your writing more vivid. Try using it in your descriptions to create a negative sensory experience. ✍️
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