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

The olfactory journey spans five continents with scents both recognizable and obscure, like the musk secreted by the glands of the nocturnal civet. —Shoshi Parks, Smithsonian Magazine, 5 July 2024

For example, the skylights from the store were recycled as flooring for the restaurant; the open-floor design is divided into smaller spaces with a distinct feel similar to a department store; and the signature scent is inspired by the store's lobby, blending leathery notes, sandalwood, and musk. —Dobrina Zhekova, Travel + Leisure, 17 June 2024

She’s drawn to unisex scent Bond No.9 West Side, with notes of rose, ylang ylang, sandalwood, and musk. —Fiona Embleton, Glamour, 10 June 2024

The fragrance also has hints of natural rose musk and white musk, making the balance of warm and light notes an ideal fragrance for both day and night. —Celeste Polanco, Essence, 28 May 2024

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

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