How Do You Spell BESMELL?

Pronunciation: [bɪsmˈɛl] (IPA)

Correct spelling for the English word "besmell" is [bɪsmˈɛl], [bɪsmˈɛl], [b_ɪ_s_m_ˈɛ_l] (IPA phonetic alphabet).

BESMELL Meaning and Definition

  1. Besmell is a verb that refers to the act of perceiving or identifying an odor or smell, with a particular emphasis on a negative or unpleasant aroma. It is derived from the combination of the prefix "be-" (indicating a cause or effect) and the word "smell," signifying the overall meaning of being affected by a bad or offensive scent.

    The term besmell can be used to describe the process of detecting or becoming aware of an unpleasant odor through the sense of smell. It implies a strong or noticeable stench that is considered unpleasant, possibly causing discomfort, repulsion, or disgust. When someone besmells something, they are actively picking up or encountering the disagreeable smell and may react accordingly.

    The usage of besmell often suggests a somewhat forceful or overwhelming nature of the odor being perceived, distinguishing it from a mere scent or aroma. It underlines an experience where an individual cannot avoid or ignore the unpleasant smell, as it is potentially lingering or pervasive.

    Furthermore, besmell can also connote the action of imparting a bad odor to something. In this context, it depicts the process of making or causing something to smell unpleasant. It highlights the state of emitting an unfavorable scent, tainting the air or an object with an offensive smell.

    Overall, besmell denotes the act of smelling or perceiving an unpleasant odor, emphasizing the conspicuous or pervasive nature of the scent, as well as the potential effect it may have on an individual or object.

Etymology of BESMELL

The word "besmell" is derived from the combination of two words: "be-" and "smell".

The prefix "be-", in this context, is derived from Old English and Middle English, and it is used to intensify or give a sense of completeness to the verb it precedes. It can also imply thoroughness or surrounding.

The word "smell" is derived from Old English "smellan", which means "to perceive or detect an odor through the nose". It has remained relatively unchanged in its meaning throughout history.

Therefore, the compound word "besmell" is formed by combining the prefix "be-" with the verb "smell". It can be interpreted as intensifying or completely surrounding the act of perceiving or detecting an odor. However, it is worth noting that "besmell" is not widely used in contemporary English and is considered outdated or obsolete.