Rotten

/ˈrɒt(ə)n/

Meaning & Definition

adjective
decayed or decomposed, usually to the point of being inedible.
The fruit was left out for too long and became completely rotten.
having an unpleasant smell or taste due to decay.
The rotten smell from the garbage bin filled the kitchen.
corrupt, immoral, or unethical.
The government was criticized for allowing rotten practices among its officials.
extremely bad or ineffective.
He gave a rotten performance that disappointed the audience.
in a poor condition; dilapidated.
The old house had been left to fall into a rotten state.

Etymology

Old English 'rotian', from Proto-Germanic *wrōtīną.

Common Phrases and Expressions

rotten to the core
Completely corrupt or evil.
a rotten deal
An unfair or bad agreement.
rotten luck
Very unfortunate circumstances.

Related Words

rot
To decompose or decay.
putrefy
To undergo decay or putrefaction.
decompose
To break down into simpler forms.

Slang Meanings

Something very disappointing or bad.
The concert was rotten; I wouldn’t recommend it.
Feeling unwell or sick.
I feel rotten today; I think I caught a cold.