Definition

To have a very unpleasant smell or to be of very poor quality.

Example

The garbage in the kitchen stinks and needs to be taken out.

Tense Forms

Conversation

Did you hear about that new restaurant downtown?

Yeah, I heard it really stinks because of the poor service.

That's disappointing; I was excited to try it out.

Same here, but I guess I'll wait until I hear better reviews.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Definition

A strong and unpleasant smell, often associated with decay or something rotten.

Example

The stink from the garbage was unbearable.

Conversation

Did you notice that stink coming from the fridge?

Yeah, I thought it was just me!

I think we should clean it out; that stink is really bad.

Definition

To make something have a strong, unpleasant smell.

Example

The garbage will stink the whole house if we don't take it out.

Tense Forms

Conversation

Did you notice that the trash really stink this morning?

Yeah, I could smell it from my room!

I think we need to take it out before it gets worse and stink up the whole house.

Root Explanation

Stink originates from Old English 'stincan', meaning to emit a strong odor. The word describes the act of producing an unpleasant smell.

Memory Tip

Think of the Old English word 'stincan' which means to emit a strong odor — that's why 'stink' refers to a bad smell.

Visually Confused Words