Pronunciation: [wˈɪfɪ] (IPA) 
The word "whiffy" is spelled with two f's to indicate the short vowel sound /ɪ/ in the root word "whiff". The "y" at the end is used to indicate that the word is an adjective. In IPA phonetic transcription, "whiffy" can be written as /ˈwɪfi/ with the primary stress on the first syllable and the secondary stress on the last syllable. This word is commonly used to describe unpleasant odors or smells, such as a "whiffy garbage can".
Whiffy is an adjective that describes something as having an unpleasant or offensive smell. It is often used to describe odors that are strong and pungent, producing an immediate negative reaction. The term can be applied to a variety of scents, including those that are foul, noxious, rancid, or fetid.
When used to describe a person or animal, whiffy suggests the presence of body odor that is unpleasant or overpowering. It implies a lack of cleanliness or hygiene. For example, a person who has not showered for several days may be described as whiffy.
Whiffy can also be used to describe food or substances that emit an unappetizing odor, indicating that they are spoiled, rotten, or stale. It may refer to expired milk, decaying garbage, or decomposing organic matter.
In a more figurative sense, whiffy can describe a situation or idea that seems suspicious or dubious. It suggests the presence of something disreputable or questionable. For instance, a financial scheme that appears to be fraudulent or a claim that lacks credibility may be described as whiffy.
In summary, whiffy refers to an unpleasant smell, whether it be from a person, animal, food, substance, or a figurative object or idea. It conveys a sense of disgust or aversion to the scent in question.
The word "whiffy" originated in the early 20th century as a variant of the adjective "whiff", which comes from the Old English word "hwif" meaning "a puff or gust of air". Originally, "whiff" referred to a slight or fleeting odor that could be detected through the air. Over time, "whiff" began to be used metaphorically to describe something that was suspicious or questionable. This sense of the word later gave rise to "whiffy", meaning having a strong or unpleasant smell.
