Viverra civetta

Civet Civ"et (s[i^]v"[e^]t), n. [F. civette (cf. It. zibetto) civet, civet cat, fr. LGr. zape`tion, fr. Ar. zub[=a]d, zab[=a]d, 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 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. [1913 Webster]

2. (Zo["o]l) The animal that produces civet ({Viverra civetta}); -- called also {civet cat}. It is carnivorous, from two to three feet long, and of a brownish gray color, with transverse black bands and spots on the body and tail. It is a native of northern Africa and of Asia. The name is also applied to other species. [1913 Webster]