Astringent
Adjective
Definition: Having a sharp, bitter taste that causes a tightening or drying effect on the tissues.
Definition: Having the property of causing contraction or shrinking of bodily tissues.
Synonyms: Sharp, Biting, Tart
Antonyms: Mild, Sweet
Examples:
- The astringent flavor of the green apple made her mouth pucker.
- The astringent properties of witch hazel help to tighten and tone the skin.
Mnemonics:
- 'Astringent' sounds like 'stringent,' which refers to something that is strict or tight. This can help remember the idea of something causing tightening or contraction.
Etymology:
Origin:
From Latin 'adstringere', meaning 'to tighten'
Historical Usage:The term "astringent" has been used in medicine and skincare to describe substances that cause tissue contraction and drying since the 16th century.
Related Idioms:
Idiom:
"Astringent taste"
Explanation:Referring to the sensation of sharpness or bitterness that causes the mouth to pucker or tighten.
Misconceptions:
Misconception:
Astringent refers only to taste.
Explanation:While astringent is commonly used to describe taste, it can also refer to the property of causing tissue contraction or shrinking.