Fetidity

/fɛˈtɪdɪti/ noun

Definition

The quality or state of being fetid; an intensely foul or putrid smell.

Etymology

From Latin 'foetiditas' derived from 'foetidus' (stinking). The suffix '-ity' converts the adjective to a noun describing the abstract quality of foulness.

Kelly Says

Medical professionals use 'fetidity' to describe the smell of infected wounds or gangrene—it's an early warning sign that tissue is dying. Your sense of smell is literally saving your life by detecting fetidity!

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