Mephitis \Me*phi"tis\, n. [L. mephitis : cf. F. m['e]phitis.]

1. Noxious, pestilential, or foul exhalations from decomposing substances, filth, or other source.

2. (Zo["o]l.) A genus of mammals, including the skunks.

Source: Webster's Revised Unabridged Dictionary (1913)