as in stink
a strong unpleasant smell
we finally discovered the dead rat that was causing the stench in the basement
Synonyms & Similar Words
Relevance
Antonyms & Near Antonyms
Example Sentences
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.
Recent Examples of stench
Some items may make your stench less appetizing from a mosquito’s perspective, while others might enhance it.
—
Caroline Tien, SELF, 14 Aug. 2025
This rotting food would inevitably emit a stench so overpowering that early European explorers, fur trappers, and missionaries were sickened by it.
—ArsTechnica, 28 July 2025
This rotting food would inevitably emit a stench so overpowering that early European explorers, fur trappers and missionaries were sickened by it.
—Melanie Beasley, The Conversation, 25 July 2025
The stench of trash and residue of bad decisions in one of America’s favorite party hotspots is being scrubbed away, thanks to a change in garbage collectors that New Orleans residents say has transformed the French Quarter.
—Nick Lichtenberg, Fortune, 25 July 2025
See All Example Sentences for stench
Caroline Tien, SELF, 14 Aug. 2025
This rotting food would inevitably emit a stench so overpowering that early European explorers, fur trappers, and missionaries were sickened by it.
—ArsTechnica, 28 July 2025
This rotting food would inevitably emit a stench so overpowering that early European explorers, fur trappers and missionaries were sickened by it.
—Melanie Beasley, The Conversation, 25 July 2025
The stench of trash and residue of bad decisions in one of America’s favorite party hotspots is being scrubbed away, thanks to a change in garbage collectors that New Orleans residents say has transformed the French Quarter.
—Nick Lichtenberg, Fortune, 25 July 2025
See All Example Sentences for stench
Recent Examples of Synonyms for stench
Noun
-
So, yes, sweat happens, but serious stink doesn’t have to.—
Carrie Bell,
Outside,
17 Aug. 2025
-
Sewage stink, swarming flies and water problems overhead and underfoot caused a state inspector to close a Burger King in Miami Shores last week.—
David J. Neal,
Miami Herald,
12 Aug. 2025
Noun
-
Remnants of the explosion The area near the explosion still reeks of sulfur two months after the tragedy, and shrapnel remains scattered at the compound and surrounding farmland.—
Jake Goodrick,
Sacbee.com,
12 Sep. 2025
-
The reek began to overwhelm the culinary artistry of the chefs, who shot resentful glances at the weighing station.—
Nathaniel Rich,
Harpers Magazine,
20 Aug. 2025
Cite this Entry
“Stench.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/stench. Accessed 15 Sep. 2025.
Copy CitationLove words? Need even more definitions?
Merriam-Webster unabridged
Share