Definition

1. 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

1. of or pertaining to or suggestive of a goat (especially in strong odor)