VocabDictionary

noisome

/ˈnɔɪ.səm/advanced Level

English Meaning & Definitions

1.adjective

Having such a foul and offensive smell that it is sickening or repulsive.

Example Sentences:
  • The hikers had to turn back because of the noisome odor emanating from the swamp.
  • Overflowing landfills during the summer heat produce a truly noisome stench.
2.adjective

Harmful, noxious, or generally injurious to health and well-being.

Example Sentences:
  • Industrial factories pump noisome chemicals into the local river.
  • Victorian cities struggled constantly with noisome conditions and poor sanitation.
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English Synonyms & Near Equivalents

English Antonyms & Opposites

Comprehensive Thesaurus Breakdown

Compare formal, informal, literary synonyms and register nuances for “noisome”.

Thesaurus Entry
Cultural Origin & Etymology

Originating in the late Middle English period, 'noisome' is formed from 'noy', an aphetic (shortened) form of the Middle English word 'anoy' (meaning 'annoy'), combined with the suffix '-some' (denoting 'characterized by' or 'tending to'). Despite how it sounds, it has no etymological connection to the word 'noise'; rather, it originally meant hurtful or harmful, and evolved to commonly describe foul odors.

Memory Aid & Mnemonic

Remember that 'noisome' sounds like 'noise', but think of a 'noisome' (annoying/foul) smell that makes you want to say 'NO! I'm some-what sick from that stench!'

Frequently Asked Questions About “noisome

1. What is the meaning of “noisome” in English?

In English, noisome (adjective) is defined as: “Having such a foul and offensive smell that it is sickening or repulsive.”.

2. How do you use “noisome” in a sentence?

The hikers had to turn back because of the noisome odor emanating from the swamp.

3. What are English synonyms of “noisome”?

Common synonyms include:malodorous,stinking,fetid,noxious,revolting

4. What is the etymology and word origin of “noisome”?

Originating in the late Middle English period, 'noisome' is formed from 'noy', an aphetic (shortened) form of the Middle English word 'anoy' (meaning 'annoy'), combined with the suffix '-some' (denoting 'characterized by' or 'tending to'). Despite how it sounds, it has no etymological connection to the word 'noise'; rather, it originally meant hurtful or harmful, and evolved to commonly describe foul odors.