Definition

The condition of being unpleasant, dirty, or offensive.

Example

The foulness of the air made it difficult to breathe.

Conversation

Did you notice the foulness in the air at the park yesterday?

Yeah, it was pretty unpleasant, especially near the lake.

I wonder what's causing that kind of foulness lately.

Maybe it's from the construction work nearby; they should really do something about it.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Foulness → It is formed from "foul" (from Old English *fūl*, meaning dirty or offensive) and "-ness" (meaning the state or quality of). The word "foulness" refers to the state of being foul or unpleasant.

Memory Tip

Think of the word 'foul' meaning dirty or offensive, and remember that 'foulness' describes the quality of being foul.

Visually Confused Words