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Skunk Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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skunk

[skʌŋk ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

smelly animal

A skunk is a small mammal known for its ability to spray a liquid with a strong, unpleasant smell. Skunks are black and white in color and are found in various parts of North and South America. They use their spray as a defense mechanism when they feel threatened.

Synonyms

polecat, polecats, stinker.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
skunk

As above: Used to describe the animal known for its distinctive black and white coloration and defensive spray. Also used metaphorically.

  • The smell of a skunk can linger for days.
  • After breaking his promise, everyone called him a skunk.
polecat

A term more commonly used in British English to describe a small, carnivorous mammal related to the ferret. It can also be used similarly to 'skunk' in a metaphorical sense but is less common.

  • We saw a polecat while hiking through the woods.
  • People regard that politician as a real polecat.
stinker

Often used informally to describe someone who behaves badly or causes trouble. It can also mean something that smells terrible or a difficult situation. This term generally has a playful or light-hearted connotation.

  • The kid next door is a real stinker.
  • That test was a real stinker; hardly anyone passed.
  • She's such a little stinker, always hiding my keys as a joke.
polecats

Plural form of 'polecat,' used when referring to more than one of these animals.

  • The farmer set traps to catch the polecats raiding his chicken coop.
  • A group of polecats was spotted near the riverbank.

Examples of usage

  • A skunk sprayed our dog when it got too close.
  • The smell of a skunk can linger for days.
Context #2 | Noun

slang term

In informal language, a skunk is also used to describe a person or thing that is considered unpleasant or contemptible. It is often used as a derogatory term to express disapproval or dislike towards someone or something.

Synonyms

contemptible person, unpleasant individual.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
skunk

Use to describe a person you find extremely deceitful or untrustworthy, often in informal settings. This term can have a negative connotation.

  • That skunk lied to me about the money.
  • Don't trust him; he's a real skunk.
contemptible person

Suitable for more formal situations when you want to emphasize someone's low moral character or actions. It is harsh and expresses strong disapproval.

  • He's a contemptible person for betraying his friends.
  • Only a contemptible person would treat others with such disrespect.
unpleasant individual

Best used for describing someone who is generally disagreeable or difficult to be around. This term is less harsh and can be employed in both formal and informal settings.

  • She can be quite an unpleasant individual to work with.
  • He's known as an unpleasant individual in the neighborhood.

Examples of usage

  • He's such a skunk for cheating on his partner.
  • That company pulled a skunk move by not honoring their promise.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Biology

  • Skunks belong to the family Mephitidae, which includes around 10 different species.
  • These animals have a strong sense of smell and can see well in the dark, aiding their nocturnal lifestyle.
  • Their spray can travel up to 10 feet and is a defense mechanism to deter predators.

Pop Culture

  • Skunks are often featured in cartoons, like Pepé Le Pew, who is a loveable skunk character known for his romantic misadventures.
  • In popular culture, the skunk's signature odor has made it a symbol of anything unpleasant or undesirable.

Behavior

  • Skunks are typically calm but will give a warning by hissing or stomping their front feet before spraying.
  • They are omnivores, eating a variety of foods that include insects, fruits, and small animals.

Conservation

  • Skunks play an important role in ecosystems by helping control insect populations.
  • While generally common, some species of skunks are threatened by habitat loss and hunting.

Origin of 'skunk'

Main points about word origin

  • The word 'skunk' comes from the Algonquin word 'segankw' which means 'one that squirts'.
  • In early 17th-century American colonists adopted the term, associating it with the animal's unique odor.

The word 'skunk' originated from the Algonquian language, specifically the Abenaki language where it was recorded as 'seganku'. Skunks have long been known for their defensive spray, which has given rise to various legends and stories. The term 'skunk' as a derogatory slang has been in use since the early 1900s.

Word Frequency Rank

Positioned at #22,911, this word is part of extensive vocabulary. It's relatively rare in general usage but may be important in specific fields or formal writing.