| Civet | n. [ F. civette (cf. It. zibetto) civet, civet cat, fr. LGr. zape`tion, 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. [ 1913 Webster ] 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. [ 1913 Webster ] |