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.

Milk, for example, would be mixed with formaldehyde to sweeten it when it went rancid.

From The Wall Street Journal • Jun. 23, 2026

Antioxidant preservatives serve a different purpose, helping to prevent oxidation so foods do not become brown or rancid.

From Science Daily • Jun. 18, 2026

As Nolso opens the door, a rancid odour escaped.

From Barron's • Mar. 3, 2026

A pungent, fishy rancid odor has been wafting through the coastal air in Los Angeles this week, an unfortunate consequence of beautiful bioluminescent algae that has graced local beaches for a fortnight.

From Los Angeles Times • Oct. 30, 2024

My gut clenches in fear; then there’s that rancid hate, flashing up in an instant.

From "Cat's Eye" by Margaret Atwood

Vocabulary lists containing rancid

The Cay

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Oh, No! Synonyms for "Bad"

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Front Desk

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