Foulness

Foulness refers to the state or quality of being extremely unpleasant, offensive, and morally reprehensible. It encompasses a wide range of negative attributes, including physical dirtiness, moral corruption, unpleasant smells, and corrupting influences. The word can apply to tangible things like decaying matter or polluted water, as well as abstract concepts such as actions, words, or character traits. Ultimately, foulness represents a departure from what is considered clean, pure, wholesome, or acceptable, often causing disgust, revulsion, or condemnation. Its presence can be a source of discomfort, disease, or societal degradation.

Foulness meaning with examples

• The stagnant water's foulness was immediately apparent, a putrid stench emanating from its surface, filled with algae and rotting vegetation. Children were warned not to go near it due to the risk of disease. The sight of the thick, murky liquid was enough to make you gag and it was a source of worry for the town.
• The criminal's confession revealed the foulness of his deeds, detailing years of deception and manipulation, with the most brutal and violent acts detailed. The jury was sickened by the graphic details which laid bare his moral depravity and the extent of the harm inflicted on his victims. The case became a symbol of societal evil.
• Despite the superficial beauty, the city's underbelly was marred by foulness – neglected alleys choked with refuse, the constant noise from illegal street gambling and rampant corruption that made many citizens feel that the rule of law was an absolute joke. The environment made daily life difficult for the honest workers who wanted to just live normal lives.
• The medieval battlefield, after a long day's fighting, was a scene of utter foulness. The sight of the deceased and those suffering from grievous injuries left a terrible memory. The air was thick with the stench of blood and decay, adding another layer of horror and the environment was a perfect breeding ground for diseases.
• The politician's campaign, initially lauded, descended into foulness as accusations of bribery and propaganda, and the use of fabricated materials, were revealed to be the methods employed. The constant smear tactics were exposed and many long-time supporters now felt completely disgusted by what had happened, creating a significant scandal and damaging their public image.