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

Left too long in that environment, it will eventually turn rancid.

From Salon • Jan. 19, 2025

On Aug. 15, a worker overfilled a leachate storage tank, causing 3,000 gallons of rancid liquid waste to spill.

From Los Angeles Times • Aug. 30, 2024

The goat was "nasty and mean", smelled "disgusting, musky, rancid", and would chase her young children, knocking them down.

From BBC • Apr. 26, 2024

Marcus crawled across the grass until his face was so close to mine that I could smell his rancid breath.

From "We Are the Ants" by Shaun David Hutchinson

Vocabulary lists containing rancid

The Cay

Looking to grow your vocabulary? Check out this interactive, curated word list from our team of English language specialists at Vocabulary.com – one of over 17,000 lists we've built to help learners worldwide!

Oh, No! Synonyms for "Bad"

Interested in learning more words like this one? Our team at Vocabulary.com has got you covered! You can review flashcards, quiz yourself, practice spelling, and more – and it's all completely free to use!

Front Desk

Want to remember this word for good? Start your learning journey today with our library of interactive, themed word lists built by the experts at Vocabulary.com – we'll help you make the most of your study time!