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Civet - Meaning, Definition & English Examples

A civet is a small, nocturnal mammal native to tropical Asia and Africa, known for producing a musky secretion used in perfumes. Some species resemble cats or weasels.

civet

/ˈsɪvɪt/ /ˈsɪvɪt/

Definition:

A small, cat-like mammal known for producing a musky secretion used in perfumes.

Synonyms:

civet cat, musang, luwak

Part of Speech:

noun

Antonyms:

(No direct antonyms; context-dependent)

Common Collocations:

civet coffee, civet perfume, wild civet

Derivatives:

civets, civet-like

Usage Tips:

Use "civet" to refer to the animal or its musk; avoid confusion with similar small mammals.

Common Phrases:

(No common phrases or idioms)

Etymology:

From French "civette," derived from Arabic "zabād," referring to the animal's musk.

Examples:

  • 1. The civet is a nocturnal creature found in tropical forests.
  • 2. Civet musk is a prized ingredient in luxury perfumes.
  • 3. Farmers sometimes keep civets for their valuable coffee beans.
  • 4. The spotted fur of the civet helps it blend into the forest.

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