Definition, Meaning & Synonyms

musty-smell

adjective
/ˈmʌsti smɛl/
Definition
A stale or damp odor typically associated with mold, mildew, or a lack of freshness.
Examples
  • The old basement had a musty smell that made it uncomfortable to stay in for too long.
  • After years of being stored away, the books emitted a musty smell when opened.
Meaning
Musty smell describes an unpleasant, sometimes moldy odor that arises from damp spaces or old items, often evoking a sense of age or neglect.
Synonyms
  • Stale
  • Damp
  • Moldy
  • Fusty
  • Old