What does reeked mean?
“Reeked” is the past tense and past participle of “reek,” meaning to give off a strong, unpleasant smell. It can be used directly, as in saying that a room “reeked of tobacco,” or figuratively, as in saying that a scandal “reeked of corruption.” The figurative sense is especially common in journalism and formal criticism, where it describes something fundamentally dishonest, disgraceful, or otherwise objectionable. Although “reeked” may suggest a stronger or more persistent odor than “smelled,” it is not necessarily limited to smells; the word’s figurative use gives it a distinctly condemnatory tone. It is normally used with “of” or “with” when naming the source of the smell or objectionable quality. The form is not commonly used as a present-tense verb in contemporary English, so it often appears in narrative descriptions and retrospective statements.
To give off a strong unpleasant smell, or to be saturated with such a smell.
"The kitchen reeked of fish and stale smoke."
Often followed by “of” or “with.” The sense is strongly negative.
To be characterized by something morally, socially, or otherwise objectionable.
"The administration’s actions reeked of abuse of power."
This figurative sense is especially common in journalism, political criticism, and formal commentary.
“Reeked” can describe not only a foul smell but also a place or reputation filled with something objectionable, such as corruption or deceit.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does reeked come from?
“Reek” comes from Old English rēcan, meaning “to smoke,” “steam,” or “to give off an odor,” and is related to words such as “reek” in other Germanic languages. In Middle English, its meaning broadened from producing smoke or vapor to emitting a strong smell. The modern figurative sense developed by extension, applying the word’s unpleasant physical associations to moral and social failings.
Related word forms
How reeked is actually used
The word is strongly negative and usually implies an especially offensive smell. Figurative uses are common in journalism and formal criticism, where they describe something morally or socially objectionable.
Easily confused with reeked
“Reeked” means to give off a strong unpleasant smell, whereas “leaked” means to escape or seep through a gap.
“Reeked” refers to an offensive smell, while “wrecked” means to damage, destroy, or ruin.