# putrid

/ˈpjutɹɪd/ (US) · /pjˈuːtɹɪd/ (UK) · CEFR C1 · Adjective

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/putrid
Updated: 2026-05-31

## Definition

extremely bad-smelling, like something that is very rotten or has gone bad. It describes a smell that is so strong and unpleasant it is hard to ignore.

For teachers: extremely foul-smelling or rotten; characterized by a strong, offensive odour. Often used to describe organic decay or poor-quality food.

## Examples

- The old cheese in the back of the fridge was putrid.
- After the heavy rain, the stagnant water in the pond became putrid and attracted flies.
- The detective noted the putrid smell emanating from the basement, a clear sign that the evidence had been stored in unsuitable conditions for far too long.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.