"Noisomeness" is a word that refers to the quality of being filthy or offensive. Despite its unusual spelling, the word is phonetically straightforward. It is pronounced as "NOY-suh-muh-ness" (nɔɪsəmnəs) with the stress on the second syllable. The "o" and "i" combination in the first syllable is pronounced as "oy" sound, similar to the word "boy." The "e" at the end of the word is silent. Though it may seem daunting to spell, understanding its phonetic breakdown simplifies the task.
Noisomeness is a noun that refers to the characteristic of being offensive or harmful to the senses, particularly the sense of smell. It describes something that is extremely disagreeable, foul-smelling, or disgusting in nature. The term originated from the Middle English word "noysom," meaning noxious or harmful, and it can be traced back to the Old English word "nesum," which means "annoyance" or "discomfort."
In various contexts, noisomeness can be interpreted as the quality of emitting strong, repulsive odors, causing revulsion or nausea in those exposed to it. It encompasses the notion of something that is injurious or detrimental to health or well-being due to its foul smell. For instance, a stagnant pond with decaying organic matter or a garbage dump with decomposing waste can be described as exhibiting noisomeness.
Furthermore, noisomeness can extend beyond smells to encompass general unpleasantness, annoyance, or unpleasant experiences. It can encompass the ideas of something that is offensive, repulsive, or loathsome, not solely restricted to the sense of smell. Therefore, it refers to a wider range of qualities that generate discomfort, aversion, or disgust.
Overall, noisomeness pertains to anything that possesses a repugnant or nauseating smell or presence, causing physical or psychological discomfort and repulsion. It encompasses a range of qualities that are detrimental to one's sensory experiences and overall well-being.
Quality that disgusts; offensiveness to the smell.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
The word "noisomeness" is derived from the Old English term "nẏsme", which meant "nausea" or "disgust". This Old English word originated from the Proto-Germanic root "*neus-" meaning "to disgust" or "be loathsome". Over time, "nẏsme" evolved into "noisome" in Middle English, which referred to something that was offensive or disgusting. From "noisome", the noun form "noisomeness" was derived, representing the state or quality of being noisome.