big stink
Noisy public outrage
A big stink is a major fuss or commotion, especially one involving complaints or controversy: The parents raised a big stink about the new dress code.
The phrase suggests loud, sustained protest—making enough noise that others can't ignore it.
To make a big stink is to complain vigorously and publicly until something changes.
controversy
Prolonged public disagreement
furor · outcry · brouhaha · kerfuffle · hullabaloo · commotion · ruckus · fuss · to-do · flap
stench
Powerfully offensive odor
- reekEmit strong odor
- foul smellUnpleasant nasal sensation
- malodorUnpleasant, offensive smell
putrid · rank · fetid · noisome · rotten · sulfurous · acrid · pungent · miasma · nauseating
big stinktacit approval
Wordless permission or acceptance
shrug · indifference · apathy · sufferance · docility
big stinkcover-up
Hiding wrongdoing from public
sweeping under the rug · suppression · whitewash · glossing over · downplaying
big, bigger, biggest, stink, stinks, stank, stunk, stinking, stinker