reek
What does "reek" mean?
To reek means to emit a strong, unpleasant, or offensive smell. The mental image is of a thick, invisible cloud of odor radiating from an object or person, so potent that it seems to cling to the air around it. While often used for physical odors like garbage or smoke, it is frequently used metaphorically. When something "reeks of" an abstract quality—like corruption, desperation, or hypocrisy—it means that the quality is painfully obvious and overwhelmingly negative.
"reek" in conversation
Cleaning the fridge
Oh my god, open a window! This old milk reeks.
Oh my god, open a window! This old milk reeks.
I thought it was just the trash, but you're right. It's disgusting.
I thought it was just the trash, but you're right. It's disgusting.
Used here to describe a literal, physical smell.
Discussing a suspicious deal
He said he found the money on the street.
He said he found the money on the street.
Don't believe him. That story reeks of a setup.
Don't believe him. That story reeks of a setup.
Used here in a metaphorical sense to indicate suspicion.
"reek" in a sentence
The gym locker room reeks after a long practice.
The gym locker room reeks after a long practice.
His clothes reeked of cigarette smoke when he came home.
His clothes reeked of cigarette smoke when he came home.
The entire political campaign reeks of hypocrisy and backroom deals.
The entire political campaign reeks of hypocrisy and backroom deals.
