musk

noun

ˈməsk 

1

a

: a substance with a penetrating persistent odor obtained from a sac beneath the abdominal skin of the male musk deer and used as a perfume fixative

also : a similar substance from another animal or a synthetic substitute

b

: the odor of musk

also : an odor resembling musk especially in heaviness or persistence

2

: any of various plants with musky odors

especially : musk plant

Examples of musk in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Initio’s cult-favorite musk offers comfort, elegance, and an effortlessly clean vibe. —Essence, 30 Jan. 2026

The crisp mix of citrus, white florals, and musk is undeniably romantic, but not super girly or feminine. —Jacqueline Kilikita, Refinery29, 22 Jan. 2026

Cinnamon and cardamom add a warm, spicy kick, whereas juniper and musk give it a skin-like finish, rounding out the scent with a sophisticated, earthy warmth. —Conçetta Ciarlo, Vogue, 14 Jan. 2026

Plus expensive-smelling musks and solar florals. —Ariel Wodarcyk, InStyle, 11 Jan. 2026

Word History

Etymology

Middle English muske, from Middle French musc, from Late Latin muscus, from Late Greek moschos, from Middle Persian *mušk-, from Sanskrit muṣka testicle, from diminutive of mūṣ mouse; akin to Old English mūs mouse

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1a

Phrases Containing musk

• musk deer
• musk ox
• musk plant
• musk rose
• musk thistle
• musk turtle

Rhymes for musk

• brusque
• busk
• dusk
• husk
• tusk

Kids Definition

musk

noun

ˈməsk 

1

: a strong-smelling substance obtained usually from the male musk deer and used in perfume

also : a substance of comparable odor that is from another animal (as a skunk) or is prepared artificially

2

: an odor of or resembling that of musk