smelly
UK: ˈsmeli | US: ˈsmeli
adj. having a strong or unpleasant odor
adj. (figuratively) of poor quality or distasteful
The word "smelly" combines the root "smell," derived from Old English smyllan (to emit or perceive odor), with the suffix "-y," which forms adjectives indicating a characteristic (e.g., "funny," "messy"). Originally, "smell" was neutral, but by the 19th century, "-y" attached to create "smelly," specifically connoting unpleasantness. This reflects a linguistic pattern where sensory terms often develop negative associations over time.
The trash can became smelly after days in the heat.
His socks were so smelly that no one wanted to sit near him.
The fridge had a smelly odor from spoiled food.
She wrinkled her nose at the smelly cheese.
The smelly gym bag was left in the car all weekend.