Malodour

A malodour refers to a highly unpleasant or offensive smell; a stench or foul odour. It is a combination of the Latin words 'malus' meaning bad, and 'odor' meaning smell. Malodours often indicate the presence of decomposing organic matter, chemical spills, or the emission of volatile organic compounds (VOCs). The intensity of a malodour can vary greatly, ranging from a subtle unpleasantness to an overwhelming and nauseating stench. Exposure to malodours can trigger physical reactions like nausea, headaches, and respiratory irritation, and can significantly impact one's environment and wellbeing.

Malodour meaning with examples

• The overflowing garbage bin in the alleyway emanated a persistent malodour, attracting swarms of flies and making it unpleasant to pass by. The residents of the apartment building constantly complained about this revolting stench, which seemed to permeate the surrounding area, despite the best efforts of their attempts to clean it.
• Following the chemical spill at the industrial plant, a potent malodour drifted across the nearby town, forcing residents to close their windows and causing widespread complaints of headaches and nausea. The pungent, acrid smell lingered in the air for days, causing concerns about the safety of the air.
• The kitchen, after several days of neglected leftovers, filled with a distinct malodour, making it impossible to enjoy meals. The smell, of rotting food and damp surfaces, permeated the air, clinging to clothes and curtains. Cleaning the area was imperative to regain a healthy kitchen environment.
• During the hot summer months, the stagnant water in the nearby drainage ditch created a nauseating malodour, which was particularly offensive on humid days. The strong, unpleasant odor caused several people to seek out areas away from the noxious fumes, and also created health hazards.
• The abandoned factory, with its broken windows and decaying structure, emitted a stale, metallic malodour that hung heavy in the air. The abandoned factory was home to decay, which was also known to attract the smell of rats and other vermin, worsening the situation.