Definition

In a way that has a strong, unpleasant smell or taste, often due to spoilage or decay.

Example

The butter had gone rancidly, making the cookies taste terrible.

Conversation

Did you smell that cheese in the fridge?

Yeah, it actually smelled pretty rancidly!

I thought I was going to gag when I opened the container.

Same here! We definitely need to throw it out.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Rancidly → It is formed from "rancidus" (from Latin, meaning rotten or stinking) and the adverbial suffix "-ly" (meaning in a manner of). The word "rancidly" describes something that is in a manner of being rotten or having a foul smell.

Memory Tip

Think of something that smells 'rotten' ('rancidus') to remember that 'rancidly' means having a foul smell.

Visually Confused Words