Civet

n. [Fr. civette, It. zibetto, civet and civet-cat, L. Gr. ζαπέτιον, from Per. zabād, civet, Ar. zubād and zubōād, the froth of milk or water, 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 a 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. (Zoöl.) The animal that produces civet (Viverra civetta). It is a carnivorous animal, ranking between the weasel and fox, from two to three feet long and ten or twelve inches high; of a brownish-gray color, with transverse black bands or spots on the body and tail. It is a native of North Africa. Baird.