Fetor

Fetor (pronounced /ˈfiːtɔːr/) is a strong, offensive, or foul odor. It is a harsh and unpleasant smell, often associated with decay, putrefaction, or unhygienic conditions. The intensity of a fetor can vary significantly, ranging from a mild unpleasantness to an overwhelming and nauseating stench. This sensory experience can be triggered by various sources, including biological decomposition, chemical reactions, and inadequate sanitation. The word emphasizes the pungency and repulsiveness of the smell, evoking a strong negative reaction in those who perceive it. Medical contexts, fetor is often used to describe malodorous breath or bodily fluids. It can be a diagnostic indicator of certain underlying health issues, such as infection, organ failure, or metabolic disorders.

Fetor meaning with examples

• The abandoned warehouse emitted a fetor of stagnant water and rotting wood. The smell was so pervasive that it permeated the surrounding neighborhood, making it difficult for residents to enjoy the fresh air. They covered their noses and hurried past, eager to escape the awful stench that clung to their clothes and hair.
• Upon entering the room, a fetor of stale cigarettes and unwashed clothing hit him, making him wrinkle his nose in disgust. The air was heavy and stagnant, a clear sign that the space had not been cleaned in quite a while. It was almost impossible to stay inside for more than a few moments.
• The medical examiner identified a fetor of decay emanating from the victim's body, a clear indicator of the time since death. The unpleasant aroma made the identification process more difficult, but the examination of the body was required in the investigation. He took care not to touch anything but the samples.
• The unkempt alleyway was filled with a fetor of discarded garbage and spoiled food, attracting flies and other pests. It was an unpleasant sight and smelled worse than the smell of a backed-up sewer. The community desperately wanted the smell of that street to disappear.