musk Meaning, Definition & Usage

noun an odorous glandular secretion from the male musk deer; used as a perfume fixative
noun the scent of a greasy glandular secretion from the male musk deer

F. musc, L. muscus, Per. musk, fr. Skr. mushka testicle, orig., a little mouse. See Mouse, and cd. Abelmosk, Muscadel, Muscovy duck, Nutmeg.

A substance of a reddish brown color, and when fresh of the consistence of honey, obtained from a bag being behind the navel of the male musk deer. It has a slightly bitter taste, but is specially remarkable for its powerful and enduring odor. It is used in medicine as a stimulant antispasmodic. The term is also applied to secretions of various other animals, having a similar odor.
(Zoöl.) The musk deer. See Musk deer (below).
The perfume emitted by musk, or any perfume somewhat similar.
(Bot.) (a) The musk plant (Mimulus moschatus). (b) A plant of the genus Erodium (E. moschatum); -- called also musky heron's-bill. (c) A plant of the genus Muscari; grape hyacinth.