1. a small carnivorous mammal of the weasel family with dark fur and a distinctive white facial pattern
2. a skunk
Usage: North American

Examples

• The European polecat is the ancestor of the domestic ferret.
• Polecats are known for their musky scent when threatened.
• The farmer spotted a polecat near the chicken coop.
• In some regions, people call skunks polecats.
• The polecat’s white markings help distinguish it from other weasels.
• Wild polecats are becoming more common in certain areas.