Definition

1. Noun:
   • A small freshwater turtle with a strong musky odor: "stinkpot" refers to a specific type of turtle, scientifically often the common musk turtle (Sternotherus odoratus), known for releasing a foul-smelling substance as a defense mechanism.
   • A contemptible or despicable person: "stinkpot" is an informal, derogatory term used to insult someone considered to be vile, unpleasant, or worthless.

Usage Examples

• Noun (Animal):
  • We found a stinkpot basking on a log in the pond.
  • Be careful when handling that turtle; it's a stinkpot and might release its odor.
• Noun (Person):
  • Don't listen to him; he's a lying stinkpot.
  • That stinkpot cheated me out of my money.

Advanced Usage

• The term is highly informal and offensive when applied to a person. Its use is generally confined to casual, often angry, speech.
• In zoological contexts, "stinkpot" is a common name, not a scientific term, but it is widely recognized.

Variants and Related Words

• Stink (verb/noun): To emit a strong, unpleasant smell; or the smell itself.
• Stinker (noun, informal): A person or thing that stinks; also used similarly to "stinkpot" to mean a contemptible person or a difficult problem.

Synonyms

• For the person: Rotter, scoundrel, bum, git (UK informal), jerk, creep.
• For the turtle: Musk turtle, common musk turtle.

Related Phrases/Idioms

• To raise a stink (idiom): To complain loudly and vigorously about something.
  • The customers raised a stink about the poor service.
• Stink bomb (noun): A device that releases a foul odor as a prank.
  • Someone set off a stink bomb in the hallway.

Noun

1. small freshwater turtle having a strong musky odor
2. a person who is deemed to be despicable or contemptible
   • only a rotter would do that
   • kill the rat
   • throw the bum out
   • you cowardly little pukes!
   • the British call a contemptible person a `git'