scent-bag
Definition
Noun
- A small bag or sac containing a fragrant substance: In zoology, a "scent-bag" refers to a glandular pouch in certain animals (such as civets or beavers) that secretes a strong-smelling substance, often used for marking territory or attracting mates.
- A bag used to hold perfumed materials: Historically, a small bag filled with aromatic herbs or spices, worn on the person to emit a pleasant odour.
Usage Examples
- (A zoological glandular pouch.)
- (A personal perfume bag.)
Advanced Usage
- "to have a scent-bag": To possess a glandular sac that releases a scent.
- Many mustelids, like skunks, have a scent-bag used for defence. (A specialised biological feature.)
Variants and Related Words
- Scent-bag (n): The exact same term; no common variants exist.
- Scent gland (n): A broader term for any gland that produces a scent, not necessarily in a bag form.
- The anal scent gland of a ferret is different from a scent-bag in structure. (A related anatomical term.)
Synonyms
- Scent pouch: A direct synonym, often used interchangeably in zoological contexts.
- Musk bag: A specific type of scent-bag, especially from musk deer.
- Perfume bag: A historical term for a bag worn to carry pleasant scents.
Related Idioms
- "To scent the air": To fill the air with a smell, often from a scent-bag or gland.
- The animal uses its scent-bag to scent the air and mark its territory. (A descriptive usage.)
Phrasal Verbs