musk

[ muhsk ]

noun

1. a substance secreted in a glandular sac under the skin of the abdomen of the male musk deer, having a strong odor, and used in perfumery.
2. an artificial imitation of the substance.
3. a similar secretion of other animals, as the civet, muskrat, and otter.
4. the odor of musk or some similar odor.
5. Botany. any of several plants, as the monkey flower, having a musky fragrance.

musk

/ mʌsk /

noun

1. a strong-smelling glandular secretion of the male musk deer, used in perfumery
2. a similar substance produced by certain other animals, such as the civet and otter, or manufactured synthetically
3. any of several scrophulariaceous plants of the genus Mimulus, esp the North American M. moschatus, which has yellow flowers and was formerly cultivated for its musky scent See also monkey flower
4. the smell of musk or a similar heady smell
5. modifier containing or resembling musk

   a musk flavour

   musk oil

Word History and Origins

Origin of musk¹

1350–1400; Middle English musk ( e ) (< Middle French musc ) < Late Latin muscus ( Medieval Latin moschus ) < Late Greek móskos, móschos < Persian mushk

Word History and Origins

Origin of musk¹

C14: from Late Latin muscus, from Greek moskhos, from Persian mushk, probably from Sanskrit mushká scrotum (from the appearance of the musk deer's musk bag), diminutive of mūsh mouse

Example Sentences

Billionaire Elon Musk spoke privately with Iran’s ambassador to the United Nations on Monday in a meeting aimed at easing tensions between the U.S. and Iran, per a report from the New York Times.

From Salon

It is unclear whether Musk was meeting with the diplomat on behalf of the president-elect.

From Salon

It would be a crime for Musk to negotiate with Iran on behalf of the United States as a private citizen.

From Salon

The conversation is the second time in a week that the president-elect has entrusted Musk with a key diplomatic conversation.

From Salon

Those same officials said Musk called for the meeting, and the ambassador picked the location.

From Salon

Related Words

• aroma
• flavor
• perfume
• smell
• stench
• stink
• whiff