Fetid: Word Meaning, Examples, Origin & Usage in IELTS

Whenever you pass by a dustbin full of garbage or enter a moldy basement, an unpleasant smell hits your senses. You might have wondered what word you can use to describe it or have simply tagged it ‘bad odor’. Well, when you are preparing for the IELTS exam, using or repeating words will not fetch you a good score. So, you need to know that the exact word to describe that ‘bad smell’ is fetid.

However, to use it appropriately for a good score, you need to know it. So, in this blog, we will discuss the meaning, history, and proper usage of the term ‘fetid’, solidify your understanding through practical exercises, and add it to your IELTS Vocabulary words list for Band 8 or 9 to achieve your desired score.

Meaning of Fetid

Pronunciation: /ˈfiːtɪd/ (sounds like: feh·tuhd)

Fetid is an adjective that describes something that has a strong, foul, or rotting smell, usually caused by decay, stagnation, or neglect. It is often used to describe garbage, sewage, swamps, or unventilated areas.

Often associated with decay, filth, or neglect, it is a powerful adjective that evokes the sensory discomfort of a truly disgusting smell. This word is especially useful in vivid descriptions, narratives, or critical essays, making it a strong addition to your advanced vocabulary.

History and Origin of Fetid

The word ‘fetid’ has ancient roots and has preserved its core meaning, ‘to stink’, throughout centuries. It originated from Latin and passed through Old French before becoming part of the English language in the 15th century.

Over time, ‘fetid’ has remained a formal and literary term, often used in environmental reports, descriptive writing, or academic discussions about pollution, sanitation, or decay. 

Usage & Examples of Fetid

While the word ‘fetid’ is not common in everyday speech, it is perfect for IELTS Writing or descriptive storytelling. Here are some examples of how it can be used in the correct contexts.

• The fetid odor from the garbage dump made it impossible to breathe.
• As the swamp water evaporated, it released a fetid mist that clung to the air.
• After weeks of neglect, the fridge had become fetid with moldy leftovers.
• The prisoner was held in a fetid cell with no light or ventilation.
• The fetid breath of the dragon made the knight recoil in disgust.

Using ‘Fetid’ as Different Parts of Speech

Now, let us look at some example sentences where the word, fetid, has been used in its noun form, besides working as a descriptive word.

IELTS Usage of ‘Fetid’

Using the word ‘fetid’ in IELTS Speaking or Writing Task 2, especially in topics related to pollution, urban decay, climate change, and public health, demonstrates high-level vocabulary, and the ability to express environmental or sensory conditions vividly. 

IELTS Writing Task 2 Example

• Topic: Environmental pollution is one of the greatest threats to humanity today. Do you agree or disagree?
• Sample Use in an Essay Body Paragraph: Unregulated landfills produce a fetid environment, affecting both air quality and human health. The decaying waste emits harmful gases and unbearable odours, which not only pollute nearby neighbourhoods but also cause respiratory issues. Governments must impose stricter waste management policies to curb this growing environmental hazard.

Speaking Part 2 Sample Answer

• Cue Card: Describe a place you disliked.
• Answer Excerpt: “Last summer, I visited a poorly maintained market area. The fetid smell of open drains and decaying vegetables made it unbearable to stay there for long.”

Synonyms of Fetid

In the table, there are some synonyms for fetid, that you can use for IELTS Writing and Speaking, each explained with the meaning and a sample sentence.

Antonyms of Fetid

The opposite of ‘fetid’ refers to things that smell pleasant or neutral. In the table below, you will find some antonyms, or opposites to boost your IELTS vocabulary. 

Exercises to Master the Meaning of Fetid

Now, it is time to complete the exercises that follow to improve your understanding of the word ‘fetid’.

1 A The fetid air from the dumpster made me gag.

B The old socks had become fetid after a week in the gym bag.

C The landscape was fetid with bright flowers and lush trees.

2 A The fetid water in the abandoned swimming pool became a breeding ground for mosquitoes.

B Her fetid voice echoed through the auditorium.

C The fetid stench from the sewer made walking down the street unbearable.

1 The rotting garbage made the entire street stink.

2 The peaceful meadow was filled with wildflowers and the smell of fresh grass.

3 The cellar had a musty smell after the flood.

4 After being locked for months, the room had a horrible, rotten smell.

Answer Key

The word fetid is not just about a bad smell; it is about evoking a sensory image that makes the reader or listener feel the discomfort. It is best suited for vivid descriptions in writing or formal speaking. So, start using it appropriately while taking free IELTS practice tests for writing or speech to make your description come alive in a not-so-pleasant way!

Useful Links:

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• Florid: Word Meaning, Examples, Origin & Usage in IELTS
• Vicissitude – Word of the Day for IELTS
• Check Your English Vocabulary for IELTS Exam Free PDF
• Advanced Grammar for IELTS: Common Adverb+Adjective Collocations
• Advanced Vocabulary for IELTS 7.0-9.0: Practice Exercises and Answer Key (Part 1)