tannin

noun

tan·​nin ˈta-nən How to pronounce tannin (audio)
1
: any of various soluble astringent complex phenolic substances of plant origin used especially in tanning leather and dyeing textiles, manufacturing ink, clarifying wine and beer, and in medicine
2
: a substance that has a tanning effect

Examples of tannin in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
This wine features black cherry, plum, and a hint of oak, with soft tannins and a smooth finish. Joseph V Micallef, Forbes, 14 Dec. 2024 The bourbon finished with lingering hints of spice and oaky tannins. Maggie Menderski, The Courier-Journal, 14 Dec. 2024 Balanced acidity and soft tannins wrap around flavors of cherry cola, blackberry, and cassis. Mike Desimone and Jeff Jenssen, Robb Report, 12 Dec. 2024 The unique hue of persimmon comes from its tannins, which are traditionally known in Japan as Kakishibu. Sj Studio, Sourcing Journal, 6 Dec. 2024 See all Example Sentences for tannin 

Word History

Etymology

French, from tanner to tan

First Known Use

1802, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of tannin was in 1802

Dictionary Entries Near tannin

Cite this Entry

“Tannin.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/tannin. Accessed 21 Dec. 2024.

Kids Definition

tannin

noun
tan·​nin ˈtan-ən How to pronounce tannin (audio)
: any of various substances from plants (as the oak or sumac) used in tanning leather, dyeing fabric and yarn, the making of ink, and in medicine

Medical Definition

tannin

noun
tan·​nin ˈtan-ən How to pronounce tannin (audio)
1
: any of various soluble astringent complex phenolic substances of plant origin used in tanning, dyeing, the making of ink, and in medicine as astringents and formerly in the treatment of burns
2
: a substance that has a tanning effect

More from Merriam-Webster on tannin

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