prop. n. A subfamily of mammals including the skunks; it is a subdivision not used in some classifications. Syn. -- subfamily Mephitinae. [ WordNet 1.5 ]
‖n. [ L. mephitis : cf. F. méphitis. ] 1. Noxious, pestilential, or foul exhalations from decomposing substances, filth, or other source. [ 1913 Webster ]
2. (Zool.) A genus of mammals, including the skunks. [ 1913 Webster ]