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
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Plus, its signature Melrose Place scent—a velvety blend of rose, bergamot, lychee, and white musk—makes every wash feel indulgent. Erin Parker, Allure, 3 Jan. 2025 The notes are soft and inviting, with a delicate mix of creamy musks, a touch of subtle sweetness and a hint of warm, velvety woods. Venus Wong, refinery29.com, 20 Dec. 2024 The black, 13-ounce coffee mug features a cabin scene design and is filled with the scent of vanilla, jasmine, and musk. Amber Guetebier, Better Homes & Gardens, 20 Dec. 2024 Philosophy’s Falling in Love paired with Retrospect creates this incredibly romantic blend – the way Falling in Love’s vanilla-blackberry notes mingle with Retrospect’s sophisticated musk creates this gorgeously intimate skin scent that feels like a warm embrace. Kimberly Wilson, Essence, 20 Dec. 2024 See all Example Sentences for musk 

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 Jan. 2025.

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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