1. A small, mainly carnivorous mammal of the weasel family of North America: The skunk has a bushy tail, black hair with white stripes from head to tail.

When in danger or frightened, skunks eject a very strong and extremely unpleasant smelling fluid from a pair of glands near their tails.

The fur of skunks were often used to make coats, head covers, etc.

2. Informally, a mean contemptible person: When Rebecca was almost knocked down by a man who bumped into her, she said, "You skunk! Watch where you're going!"