Definitions for: Civet

[n] catlike mammal typically secreting musk used in perfumes

Webster (1913) Definition: Civ"et, n. [F. civette (cf. It. zibetto) civet, civet
cat, fr. LGr. ?, fr. Ar. zub?d, zab?d, civet.]
1. A substance, of the consistence of butter or honey, taken
from glands in the anal pouch of the civet ({Viverra
civetta}). It is of clear yellowish or brownish color, of
a strong, musky odor, offensive when undiluted, but
agreeable when a small portion is mixed with another
substance. It is used as a perfume.

2. (Zo["o]l) The animal that produces civet ({Viverra
civetta}); -- called also civet cat. It is carnivorous,
from two to three feet long, and of a brownish gray color,
with transverse black bands and spots on the body and
tail. It is a native of northern Africa and of Asia. The
name is also applied to other species.

Civ"et, v. t.
To scent or perfume with civet. --Cowper

Synonyms: civet cat

See Also: Arctictis bintourong, banded palm civet, bearcat, binturong, Cryptoprocta, family Viverridae, family Viverrinae, fanaloka, Fossa fossa, genus Cryptoprocta, Hemigalus hardwickii, large civet, palm cat, palm civet, small civet, Viverra zibetha, Viverricula indica, Viverricula malaccensis, Viverridae, Viverrinae, viverrine, viverrine mammal

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