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What is a strong odour called?

Published in Smell Vocabulary 1 min read

A strong odour can be called many things, depending on its nature and pleasantness. Here are some possibilities:

  • Malodorous: This is a general term for a bad or unpleasant smell.
  • Mephitic: This describes a foul-smelling odour, often associated with decaying matter or poisonous gases.
  • Noisome: Similar to malodorous, noisome means offensive or disgusting, especially to the sense of smell.
  • Odiferous: While technically meaning having an odour, it is frequently used to describe a strong odour, though not necessarily a pleasant one. The context dictates the connotation.
  • Offensive: This is a straightforward term for an odour that is disagreeable or unpleasant.
  • Rancid: This describes the strong, unpleasant smell of spoiled fats or oils.
  • Stenchy: This is a simple and direct way to describe a strong, foul odour.

The best word to use will depend on the specific odour you are describing.

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