The term 'awful-smelling' can be described by three crossword solutions: FOUL (4 letters), FETID (5 letters), and RANCID (6 letters). FOUL is an adjective meaning extremely unpleasant or offensive, while FETID is an adjective meaning having an extremely unpleasant smell. Lastly, RANCID is an adjective meaning having a strong, unpleasant smell or taste caused by chemical change in the oil or fat of a substance. All three words describe something with an awful smell.