The term 'awful smell' can be described in a variety of ways, including FETOR (5 letters), REEK (4 letters), STINK (5 letters), STENCH (6 letters), and ODOR (4 letters). FETOR is a strong, unpleasant smell that is often associated with decay or putrefaction. REEK is a strong, unpleasant smell that is often associated with smoke or burning. STINK is a strong, unpleasant smell that is often associated with something that has gone bad. STENCH is a strong, unpleasant smell that is often associated with something that is rotten or decaying. ODOR is a general term for any kind of smell, both pleasant and unpleasant.