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

Bright, zingy notes of mandarin and bergamot mingle with refreshing green tea and jasmine, while a light musk keeps the scent lingering on your skin for hours. —Ariel Wodarcyk, Glamour, 2 May 2025

As the scent dries down, blossoming roses and violets are revealed, contrasted by a woody musk. —Conçetta Ciarlo, Vogue, 28 Apr. 2025

The sweetness is natural, not candy-like, and the musk gives it just enough depth to keep things interesting hours later. —Kimberly Wilson, Essence, 25 Apr. 2025

Built around a creamy musk base, the Summer Mink mixes in elements of sage and Italian citrus, which is topped off with a layer of jasmine sambac. —Michael Saponara, Billboard, 28 Apr. 2025

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