skunk

noun/skʌŋk/

Frequency rank: #11,804 most common English word

Meaning

a small black-and-white mammal known for spraying a very strong and unpleasant odor when threatened.

Illustration for the English word “skunk”

Example sentence

During our hike, we spotted skunk hiding under the bushes and quickly walked away to avoid being sprayed.

Synonyms & related words

  • polecat
  • mephitid

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