Definition

Something that is harmful or offensive, especially in a way that causes disgust or discomfort.

Example

The noisome smell from the garbage made it hard to breathe.

Conversation

Did you notice that noisome smell in the kitchen earlier?

Yeah, it was really unpleasant!

I wonder if something went bad in the fridge.

I hope not! We should check it out before it gets worse.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Noisome is derived from the Middle English 'noisome' (meaning harmful or offensive), which comes from the Old English 'noysum' (meaning annoying or harmful) and is related to the word 'noise' (from Old French 'noise', meaning sound or disturbance). The word originally described something that causes annoyance or harm, particularly in terms of smell.

Memory Tip

Think of something that is 'harmful' or 'offensive' — that's what noisome means, as it relates to causing annoyance or discomfort.

Visually Confused Words