astringent
uh-STRIN-juhnt
/əˈstrɪndʒənt/
Causing the contraction of body tissues, typically the mouth; sharp or severe in manner.
In beverages, it's the 'dry' feeling caused by tannins; in personality, it's a harsh, biting wit.
The story behind the word. From 'ad-' (to) and 'stringere' (to draw tight). It literally describes the way the substance 'draws tight' the membranes in your mouth.
Word relationships
- acerbic: Specifically refers to a sharp, sour, or biting style of speech.
- styptic: A medical term for something that stops bleeding by contracting tissue.
- bland: Lacking any sharp or interesting qualities.
- mellow: Smooth and soft, the opposite of sharp or drying.
Commonly confused with
- stringent: Stringent means strict or precise (like rules); astringent means tissue-contracting or sharp.
Word family
- astringency (noun): The quality of being astringent.
Collocations
- astringent taste
- astringent wit
- astringent lotion
Example sentences
- "The over-steeped green tea had an astringent quality that made my mouth feel dry." Describing a strong tea.
- "The critic was known for his astringent reviews that spared no one's feelings." Describing a person's wit.
Memory hook
A 'string' pulls your mouth tight. Pucker-inducing dryness.
When not to use
Do not confuse with 'bitter'. Bitterness is a taste; astringency is a physical sensation of dryness.
Fun facts
- Witch hazel is a common skin 'astringent' used to shrink pores and reduce oiliness.
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