a small black and white North American animal that produces a strong, unpleasant smell as a defence when it is frightened or attacked, a type of cannabis with a very strong smell

skunk works, skunk hour, skunked beer

Formal and Informal Expressions of skunk

In different contexts, you can replace 'skunk' with suitable alternatives. In a more formal setting, 'polecat' is apt. In informal speech or writing, 'weed' is a commonplace synonym.

skunk: Explore its Definition & Usage

skunk Definition

1a small black and white North American animal that produces a strong, unpleasant smell as a defence when it is frightened or attacked
2a type of cannabis with a very strong smell

Using skunk: Examples

Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "skunk" can be used in various situations through the following examples!

Example
The skunk sprayed its scent when the predator approached.
Example
The smell of skunk is very strong and unpleasant.
Example
He smoked some skunk and got high.

skunk Synonyms and Antonyms

Synonyms for skunk

polecat
weed
stink badger

Phrases with skunk

skunk works
a project team or department in a company that is given a high degree of autonomy and resources to work on an advanced or secret project
Example
The company's skunk works division is responsible for developing new technologies.
skunk hour
the time of night when the smell of skunks is most noticeable
Example
I always close my windows during skunk hour to avoid the smell.
skunked beer
beer that has been exposed to light and has a bad taste and smell
Example
The beer tasted terrible because it was skunked.

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Summary: skunk in Brief

A 'skunk' [skʌŋk] is a small North American animal that sprays a strong, unpleasant smell when threatened. It is also a type of cannabis with a very strong smell. The term extends into phrases like 'skunk works,' referring to a project team given a high degree of autonomy, and 'skunk hour,' the time of night when the smell of skunks is most noticeable.