Ferment
Verb
Definition: To undergo or cause a chemical breakdown or change, typically resulting in the production of heat, gas, or other substances.
Definition: To undergo or cause a state of agitation or excitement.
Synonyms: Brew, Bubble, Effervesce, Seethe
Antonyms: Settle, Calm, Quiet
- The sugar in the fruit will ferment and produce alcohol.
- The political situation began to ferment, leading to protests.
- Think of fermenting food or beverages, such as making sauerkraut or brewing beer.
- Imagine a ferment of ideas or emotions, bubbling and agitating.
Etymology:
Middle English from Old French 'fermenter', based on Latin 'fermentum' (leaven), from 'fervere' (to boil).
Historical Usage:The word "ferment" has been used since the 14th century to describe the process of fermentation in baking, brewing, and wine-making. In a broader sense, it has been associated with the concept of agitation or excitement since the 17th century.
Related Idioms:
"A ferment of ideas"
Explanation:Refers to a state of active and dynamic intellectual or creative activity.
Misconceptions:
Equating fermentation only with the production of alcohol.
Explanation:While fermentation can produce alcohol, it also involves various other chemical processes that result in the breakdown or change of substances. Fermentation can occur without the production of alcohol, such as in the fermentation of dough to make bread rise.