stink-bomb
Definition
- Noun:
- A device that emits a foul smell: "stink-bomb" refers to a small container or device, typically filled with a chemical that produces a very unpleasant odor when released. It is often used as a practical joke or prank to cause discomfort or amusement by creating a bad smell in an enclosed area.
Usage Examples
- Noun:
- The students set off a stink-bomb in the classroom, causing everyone to cough and flee. (A device that emits a foul odor, used as a prank.)
- He bought a stink-bomb from the joke shop to prank his brother during the party. (A small container designed to release a bad smell.)
Advanced Usage
- "to throw a stink-bomb": to deploy a stink-bomb, often metaphorically, to cause disruption or scandal.
- The politician threw a stink-bomb into the debate by revealing the leaked documents. (To introduce a shocking or controversial element that creates chaos.)
Variants and Related Words
- Stink (n/v): a strong, unpleasant smell; to emit such a smell.
- The garbage stinks after being left out for days. (The garbage has a foul odor.)
- Bomb (n): an explosive device; also used metaphorically for something that causes a sudden, disruptive effect.
- The firework bomb exploded with a loud bang. (An explosive device.)
Synonyms
- Stench grenade: a similar device that releases a foul smell, often used in military or crowd-control contexts.
- Odor bomb: a generic term for any device that releases a strong, unpleasant odor.
Related Idioms
- Stink to high heaven: to have a very strong, offensive smell.
- The abandoned house stinks to high heaven because of the rotting food. (The smell is extremely bad.)
- Cause a stink: to create a lot of trouble or controversy.
- His comments about the policy caused a stink among the staff. (His remarks created a major dispute.)
Note: "stink-bomb" is a compound noun and is used primarily as a single unit. The hyphen is sometimes omitted in informal writing (e.g., "stink bomb").