smelly

[ smel-ee ]

adjective

, smell·i·er, smell·i·est.

1. emitting a strong or unpleasant odor; reeking.

   Synonyms: stinky, malodorous

smelly

/ ˈsmɛlɪ /

adjective

1. having a strong or nasty smell

Derived Forms

• ˈsmelliness, noun

Other Words From

• smelli·ness noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of smelly¹

First recorded in 1860–65; smell + -y ¹

Example Sentences

Take these easy steps to help prevent this smelly and common problem.

From Washington Post

It’s less damp, less crowded, less smelly—all the things I realized I disliked about living inside a tent only after I stopped.

From Outside Online

Facial expressions like showing your disgust when your dog makes a particularly smelly poop or you receive unsolicited attention on the street will not ruin your beautiful face.

From Popular-Science

The urine gave off a smelly odor from that cabin, and my nose was its closest victim.

From Washington Blade

John Faulkner of Arlington, Virginia complained about noisy, smelly lawnmowers.

From Freakonomics

Related Words

• fetid
• foul-smelling
• funky
• rancid
• stinking