DictionaryfrowzyStale smell
adjective

frowzy

Having a stale, musty smell.

The guest room smells frowzy after months with the windows closed.

Etymology

Frowzy has long described musty, unclean, or stale conditions. Its origin is uncertain, so the smell sense cannot securely be derived from identifiable smaller roots.

More examples

  • I open a window to clear the frowzy air.
  • The towels smell frowzy even after a wash.
  • A frowzy odor rises from the old carpet.

Forms

frowzy · frowzier · frowziest

Similar words

musty
Often suggests dampness or mold, especially in enclosed spaces.
stale
Emphasizes a lack of freshness rather than a musty odor.