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

Moss is paired with sea salt for a subtle briny funk, while herbaceous sage, warm vetiver, and airy musk leave the scent light and refreshing. —Kara Jillian Brown, InStyle, 3 June 2026

That species, while not venomous, often bites and defecates a foul-smelling musk when handled. —John Wilkerson, STAT, 28 May 2026

In addition to zen-inducing musk, think of powdery iris, violet, or heliotrope. —Adam Hurly, Robb Report, 27 May 2026

Quentin Bisch created both Cuir 1976, blending textured leather with the velvety softness of marron glacé, and Musc Terrible, which nods to the founder’s nickname and rebellious spirit by balancing an amber and spicy musk with powdery vanilla and top notes of cinnamon and pink pepper. —Sandra Salibian, Footwear News, 20 May 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