Definition

1. Noun:
   • A strong-smelling substance: Musk is a natural substance with a strong, sweet, and persistent odor. It is obtained from a gland of the male musk deer.
   • The scent or perfume derived from this substance: Musk refers to the distinctive smell of this secretion, which is used as a base note in perfumery to fix and enhance other scents.

Examples of Usage

• Noun:
  • The perfume had a deep, warm base note of musk.
  • Natural musk is rare and expensive, so synthetic versions are commonly used.

Advanced Usage

• "to smell of musk": to have the characteristic scent of musk.
  • The old trunk smelled faintly of sandalwood and musk.

Variants and Related Words

• Musky (adj): having a smell resembling that of musk.
  • The room had a dark, musky aroma.

Synonyms

• Scent: A distinctive smell, especially one that is pleasant.
• Perfume: A fragrant liquid typically made from essential oils and aromatics.

Related Phrases

• Musk deer: The small deer from which natural musk is obtained.
• Musk ox: A large Arctic mammal, named for the strong odor emitted by males during the mating season. (Note: This is a distinct animal, not a source of commercial musk).

Noun

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