Definify.com
Webster 1913 Edition
Civet
Civ′et
(sĭv′ĕt)
, Noun.
[F.
civette
(cf. It. zibetto
) civet, civet cat, fr. LGr. ζαπέτιον
, fr. Ar. zubād
, zabād
, 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.
(Zool)
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
,Verb.
T.
To scent or perfume with civet.
Cowper
Webster 1828 Edition
Civet
CIVET
,Noun.