Definition

1. Noun:
   • A large skunk with a naked muzzle and a white back and tail: "badger skunk" refers to a specific species of skunk (Conepatus leuconotus) found in southwestern North America and Mexico, characterized by its relatively large size, hairless muzzle area, and distinctive white markings along its back and tail.

Usage Examples

• Noun:
  • The hiker cautiously observed a badger skunk foraging near the trail.
  • Unlike the more common striped skunk, the badger skunk has a broader white stripe.

Advanced Usage

• The term "badger skunk" is primarily used in zoological, wildlife, and regional contexts to distinguish this particular species from other skunks. It is not commonly used in everyday conversation.

Variants and Related Words

• Hog-nosed skunk: Another common name for the same genus () of skunks, referring to their distinctive snout.
• Rooter skunk: A regional name sometimes used for these skunks, alluding to their habit of rooting in the ground for food.

Synonyms

• Conepatus leuconotus: The scientific (Latin) name for the species.
• White-backed skunk: A descriptive synonym highlighting its key physical characteristic.

Related Phrases

• To smell like a skunk: An idiom meaning to have a very bad smell. (Note: This idiom uses the general term "skunk," not the specific term "badger skunk").
  • After the chemical spill, the whole factory smelled like a skunk.

Noun

1. large naked-muzzled skunk with white back and tail; of southwestern North America and Mexico