The phrase "making stink" is spelled using the traditional English spelling system, which does not always accurately represent the sounds of words. In IPA phonetic transcription, it would be spelled /ˈmeɪkɪŋ stɪŋk/, with distinct sounds for each letter. The "a" in "making" makes the long "a" sound, while the "i" in "stink" represents the short "i" sound. Despite its irregular spelling, "making stink" is a commonly used idiom meaning to create a fuss or cause a commotion.
The idiom "making a stink" refers to an act or behavior of creating a fuss or causing a commotion in a noisy, disruptive, and often confrontational manner. This expression is used to describe situations in which someone is deliberately drawing attention to themselves or raising a strong objection to something, usually by making a lot of noise or showing strong disapproval.
The phrase "making a stink" has its origins in the strong and unpleasant odor associated with rotten or decaying matter. When applied figuratively, the term suggests that the person causing the commotion is metaphorically creating a repulsive and suffocating atmosphere, often causing discomfort or inconvenience to others.
In contemporary usage, "making a stink" typically involves expressing strong dissatisfaction or protest against an issue, policy, or situation. It implies a level of assertiveness, as the person involved is aiming to be heard and noticed by making a big fuss or causing disruption. This can involve raising objections, voicing criticisms, loudly demanding attention or change, or engaging in protest actions that draw public attention to an issue.
Overall, "making a stink" conveys the idea of taking a strong and often disruptive stance against something, typically through a vocal and attention-seeking manner, with the intention of drawing awareness and potentially effecting change.
The expression "making stink" does not have a specific etymology as it is a relatively colloquial phrase. However, it can be broken down for a general understanding.
The word "making" in this context refers to the act or process of doing something. It indicates that someone is actively engaged in carrying out an action.
The word "stink" essentially means a strong unpleasant smell or odor. Figuratively, it can also refer to a great fuss, commotion, or outcry over something, often related to a complaint or protest.
When used together, "making stink" generally means causing a disturbance or creating a fuss, usually in a vocal and forceful manner, to bring attention to an issue or express dissatisfaction or disapproval.
As a slang phrase, it primarily emerged and developed within informal contexts, and its exact origin and earliest usage are difficult to trace.