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.
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.