skunk
Plural
skunks
1
a small mammal belonging to the weasel family with black and white stripes that can produce a strong unpleasant smell when attacked, native to North America
The skunk is a small mammal known for its distinctive appearance and powerful scent glands. Skunks have a black fur coat with a white stripe that extends from their head down their back, and they are easily recognized by their bushy tails and stocky bodies. They have sharp claws and are known for their ability to dig burrows. Skunks are omnivorous, feeding on a wide variety of food including insects, small mammals, fruits, and vegetables. When threatened, skunks can spray a noxious-smelling liquid from their scent glands as a defense mechanism, which serves as a strong warning to potential predators.
- The skunk ambled through the forest, its distinctive black and white stripes serving as a warning to potential predators.
- Startled by the sudden movement, the skunk raised its tail in preparation to unleash its noxious spray.
- Despite its reputation for emitting a foul odor, the skunk is a shy and solitary creature, preferring to avoid confrontation.
- The skunk's fur is soft and fluffy, providing insulation against the cold nights of the forest.
- With a mischievous glint in its eyes, the baby skunk played with its siblings, chasing after insects in the tall grass.
Synonyms:
2
marijuana, especially of strong odor or high potency
- He rolled a joint with some strong skunk.
- The shop sold skunk in small quantities.
- Users often prefer skunk for its potency.
- The police seized a shipment of skunk.
- Skunk cultivation requires careful ventilation.
3
a person who is considered despicable or morally reprehensible
- That skunk betrayed his closest friends.
- The politician was called a skunk after the scandal.
- Don't be a skunk—own up to your mistakes.
- He felt like a skunk for cheating on the test.
- Skunks often face social shaming for unethical acts.
4
a lopsided defeat in which one side fails to score or earns no points
- The team suffered a skunk, losing 10–0.
- In backgammon, a skunk counts as a double loss.
- They avoided a skunk by scoring in the final minute.
- The champion delivered a skunk to his opponent.
- No team wants a skunk on their record.
Synonyms: