1
a
: a substance with a penetrating persistent odor obtained from a sac beneath the abdominal skin of the male musk deer and used as a perfume fixative
also : a similar substance from another animal or a synthetic substitute
b
: the odor of musk
also : an odor resembling musk especially in heaviness or persistence
2
: any of various plants with musky odors
especially : musk plant

Examples of musk in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web Some floral scents in the running for my own event include Diptyque Paris Fleur de Peau (musk + iris + ambrette seeds), Byredo Animalique (bergamot + violet + sandalwood), and the newest from Jo Malone London, Frangipani Flower (jasmine + lemon + frangipani). Kara McGrath, Allure, 3 Apr. 2024 Its oolong heart beats strong, long after its citrus top notes evaporate, and its plum and musk base notes are extremely centering. Adam Hurly, Robb Report, 21 Mar. 2024 The new fragrance oil comes in a 10-millimeter, travel-friendly rollerball bottle and is an olfactory delight thanks to 12 musks: lily of the valley, ambergris, oakmoss and amber woods, among them. Marques Harper, Los Angeles Times, 14 Mar. 2024 The combination of citrus, floral, and musk creates an intoxicating mixture that feels fresh and sensual. Alyssa Brascia, Peoplemag, 3 Feb. 2024 Ginger 1974 is a spicy, sassy blend, featuring ginger, fir balsam, suede and white musk. Celia Shatzman, Forbes, 26 Feb. 2024 Winter Warmth is its most recent candle release, which dropped last fall featuring a cozy blend of fresh mint, apples, and soft musks. Demetrius Simms, Robb Report, 1 Feb. 2024 This hair and body fragrance mist has warm, woody notes of amber and musk, while the lightweight formula ensures your locks remain soft and shiny. Andrea Navarro, Glamour, 13 Mar. 2024 All of the products are scented with Temple Oud, a subtle blend of Australian sandalwood, musk, and night blooming jasmine. Margaux Anbouba, Vogue, 20 Feb. 2024

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'musk.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

Word History

Etymology

Middle English muske, from Middle French musc, from Late Latin muscus, from Late Greek moschos, from Middle Persian *mušk-, from Sanskrit muṣka testicle, from diminutive of mūṣ mouse; akin to Old English mūs mouse

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1a

Time Traveler
The first known use of musk was in the 14th century

Dictionary Entries Near musk

Cite this Entry

“Musk.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/musk. Accessed 18 Apr. 2024.

Kids Definition

musk

noun
1
: a strong-smelling substance obtained usually from the male musk deer and used in perfume
also : a substance of comparable odor that is from another animal (as a skunk) or is prepared artificially
2
: an odor of or resembling that of musk

More from Merriam-Webster on musk

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