animalic

Animalic is a term used in perfumery and fragrance criticism to describe notes that are reminiscent of or derived from animal sources. Animalic notes can include natural secretions such as musk, civet, castoreum, and ambergris, as well as synthetic compounds crafted to mimic these odors. They are typically strong, warm, and lasting, with a tendency toward richness and depth. Depending on concentration and composition, animalic notes may present as balsamic, leathery, or even fecal- or urinous-like, though modern formulations aim for balanced, refined character rather than raw animal scent.

In perfumery, animalic notes usually function as base notes or fixatives, providing longevity and a sensual aura. Historically prized in many classic fragrances, they have become controversial due to animal welfare concerns and legal restrictions. Today most animal-derived components have been replaced or heavily regulated; musk is predominantly synthetic, civet and castoreum are often replaced with substitutes, and ambergris is rare and typically recreated with synthetic analogs. Compliance with IFRA and regulatory frameworks has limited usage in mainstream perfumes.

As a descriptor, animalic is not a taxonomic or biological term but a categorization of scent profile. In fragrance discourse it denotes a sensory effect rather than a precise chemical source. The term may appear in product descriptions, reviews, and scholarly texts discussing scent composition.