hircine
/'hə:sain/
Học thuậtThân thiện
Definition
- Adjective:
- Relating to or resembling a goat: Specifically used to describe characteristics, especially a strong odor, that are typical of or similar to those of a goat.
Usage
- The word "hircine" is a formal and somewhat literary adjective. It is most commonly used to describe a strong, musky, or unpleasant odor reminiscent of a male goat. It can also be used more broadly to describe anything goat-like in nature.
Examples
- Adjective:
- The damp woolen sweater had a distinct, almost hircine smell after being left in the closet.
- The old barn was filled with a hircine aroma that was unmistakably goat-like.
Advanced Usage
- Figurative Use: While primarily describing odor, "hircine" can be used figuratively to suggest something is coarse, lustful, or animalistic, drawing on the traditional symbolic associations of the goat.
- The critic described the character's hircine desires as central to the novel's tragic plot.
Variants and Related Words
- Caprine (adj): A more general and neutral term meaning "of or relating to goats."
- The farm focused on caprine husbandry.
Synonyms
- Goaty: (informal) Having the smell or characteristic of a goat.
- Musky: Having a heavy, earthy odor, which can be similar.
- Rank: Having a strong and unpleasant smell.
Antonyms
- Fragrant: Having a pleasant, sweet smell.
- Odorless: Having no smell.
Adjective
- of or pertaining to or suggestive of a goat (especially in strong odor)