stink
Translation
to smell very unpleasant, to be very bad or unfair
Examples
The old cheese began to stink.
The old cheese began to stink.
I think this whole situation stinks.
I think this whole situation stinks.
Grammar Patterns
to have a strong, unpleasant smell The old cheese began to stink.
to be very bad, unfair, or dishonest I think this whole situation stinks.
Similar Words
Synonyms: reek, smell bad; Antonyms: smell good, be fragrant
Etymology
From Old English 'stincan', meaning 'to emit a smell, good or bad'. The negative sense became dominant.
Memory Tips
Think of a 'skunk', which is famous for the bad smell it can 'stink' up.