Definition

Noun: A large, shaggy-coated bovid mammal (Ovibos moschatus) native to the Arctic regions of Canada and Greenland. It is noted for its thick coat, curved horns, and musky odor emitted by males during the mating season. Its size and anatomical features are considered intermediate between those of an ox and a sheep.

Usage

The term "musk ox" refers specifically to the animal species. It is used as a countable noun. - The musk ox is well-adapted to survive in extremely cold climates. - We saw a herd of musk oxen on the tundra. - The thick musk ox wool, called qiviut, is highly prized for its softness and warmth.

Advanced Usage

• The plural form can be "musk oxen" or, less commonly, "musk oxes."
• In biological and zoological contexts, it is often referred to by its scientific name, .

Variants and Related Words

• Muskox: A common alternative spelling, written as one word.
• Qiviut (noun): The soft, fine underwool of the musk ox, used for knitting high-quality garments.
• Ovibovine (adjective): Relating to or resembling the musk ox and its relatives.

Synonyms

• Ovibos moschatus (Scientific name)
• Arctic ox (Descriptive term)

Related Phrases and Compounds

• Musk ox herd: A group of musk oxen.
• Musk ox wool: Another term for qiviut.
• Musk ox defense: Refers to the animal's behavior of forming a defensive circle, with horns outward, to protect calves from predators like wolves.

Noun

1. large shaggy-coated bovid mammal of Canada and Greenland; intermediate in size and anatomy between an ox and a sheep