Definitions

rancid

[ran-sid] / ˈræn sɪd /

ADJECTIVE

rotten, strong-smelling

Synonyms

STRONGEST

contaminated disagreeable fetid moldy musty polluted putrid smelly soured stale tainted

WEAK

bad carious curdled decomposing disgusting evil-smelling feculent foul frowzy fusty gamy high impure loathsome malodorous nasty nidorous noisome noxious off offensive olid putrefactive putrefied putrescent rank reeky repulsive sharp sour stinking strong turned unhealthy whiffy

Antonyms

STRONGEST

clean fresh new perfumed pure sweet

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

As Nolso opens the door, a rancid odour escaped.

From Barron's • Mar. 3, 2026

Reports are already emerging from the South Texas Family Residential Center an hour south of San Antonio, which ICE uses to house children slated for removal from this country, of rancid food and overcrowded cells.

From Los Angeles Times • Feb. 24, 2026

To put it directly, the smell of rancid meat is created by way of countless tiny bacterial farts.

From Salon • May 27, 2025

Poor quality oil, or rancid oil, will have a lower smoke point.

From Seattle Times • May 20, 2024

It was sticky and crunchy at the same time, and it coated his mouth like rancid glue.

From "The House of the Scorpion" by Nancy Farmer

Vocabulary lists containing rancid

The Cay

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Oh, No! Synonyms for "Bad"

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Front Desk

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