stinking crossword clue – All Crossword Answers
Welcome! If you're looking for answers to the crossword clue "stinking", you've come to the right place. Below, you'll find a comprehensive list of potential solutions, categorized by their letter count, along with clear explanations to help you complete your puzzle.
Solutions for "stinking crossword clue" by Letter Count
4 Letters
FOUL: Having an extremely unpleasant smell; rotten or polluted.
RANK: Having a strong, unpleasant smell, especially of decay.
5 Letters
FETID: Smelling extremely unpleasant; putrid.
6 Letters
PUTRID: Decaying or rotten and emitting a fetid smell.
7 Letters
NOISOME: Having an extremely offensive or disgusting smell.
10 Letters
MALODOROUS: Smelling very unpleasant.
More About "stinking crossword clue"
The clue "stinking" is a classic example of a direct synonym clue in crosswords, often pointing towards words describing an unpleasant odor. While seemingly straightforward, the challenge lies in pinpointing the exact word the setter intends, given the multiple synonyms available for 'stinking'. The context of the surrounding words and the specific number of letters required are key indicators.
Crossword puzzles often use a wide range of vocabulary for common concepts. For "stinking," you might encounter archaic words, scientific terms, or more common everyday language. Understanding the subtle differences between words like 'fetid' (generally bad smell) and 'putrid' (bad smell due to decay) can be crucial for selecting the correct answer when multiple options fit the letter count.
Additionally, some setters might use a more figurative sense of "stinking," although it's less common for a clue that literally refers to smell. Always consider the primary, literal meaning first for such clues before exploring more nuanced interpretations. This approach will guide you to the most probable solution.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Count the Letters Carefully: Always double-check the number of boxes in the grid. This is your most reliable guide when multiple answers for "stinking" exist.
- Check Intersecting Words: The most powerful strategy is to use letters from intersecting words. If you have a few letters, it quickly narrows down the possibilities for "stinking."
- Consider Nuance: While many words mean "stinking," some have specific connotations (e.g., decay, foulness). If the puzzle has a specific theme or other related clues, this nuance might be important.
- Look for Common Crossword Terms: Some words, like FETID or PUTRID, appear frequently in crosswords due to their useful letter patterns and common meaning.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes a crossword clue "stinking"?
A "stinking" clue often refers to words meaning bad odors, decay, or foulness. It can be a literal smell, or sometimes a figurative sense like "stinking rich" (though less common in a clue meaning smell). The most common context for this clue is an unpleasant scent.
Are there common prefixes or suffixes for "stinking" words?
While not always a prefix/suffix, words related to "stinking" often come from Latin roots like 'mal-' (bad) or 'putr-' (rot). Familiarity with these roots can sometimes help, though context is key. Words like 'malodorous' directly incorporate such roots.
How do I distinguish between similar "stinking" answers like FETID and PUTRID?
The length of the answer is crucial. Also, consider the nuance: FETID implies a general bad smell, while PUTRID specifically implies decay or rotting as the source of the smell. Cross-referencing with other solved letters and the puzzle's theme is essential for pinpointing the exact word.