Astringent: meaning, definitions and examples

When describing something that has a sharp, slightly bitter taste, often used to describe certain fruits like unripe persimmons. It can also be used metaphorically to describe a tone or manner that is stern or severe.

• The unripe apple had an astringent taste that made her pucker.
• His astringent criticism left everyone in the room silent.

When describing a taste or smell that is intense and quick to be noticed. It can also describe a keenly perceptive mind or a tone of voice that is harsh.

• The cheese had a sharp taste that lingered on the tongue.
• He made a sharp remark during the meeting that caught everyone off guard.

When referring to a taste that is unpleasant and harsh. It can also describe emotions such as resentment or disappointment.

• The coffee had a bitter flavor due to over-roasting.
• She felt bitter about losing the promotion to her colleague.

When referring to a taste that is acidic and tangy, often associated with lemons and vinegar. It can also describe a displeased or unfriendly mood.

• The lemonade was too sour for my liking.
• Her mood turned sour after the argument.

Best used in a medical or cosmetic context to describe substances that cause tissue to tighten or shrink, often used in skincare products.

• Apply an astringent toner to reduce oiliness on your face.
• The astringent properties of witch hazel make it a common ingredient in acne treatments.

Used to describe something that tightens or narrows and is often used in medical or physical contexts, such as muscles or blood vessels.

• The intense cold was constricting my blood vessels.
• A constricting belt made it hard for him to breathe.

Commonly used to describe the act of something becoming smaller, shorter, or tighter, applicable in various fields like business, biology, and physics.

• The muscle was contracting rapidly during the workout.
• The company is contracting its workforce due to financial challenges.

Specifically used in medical contexts to describe agents that stop bleeding by causing blood vessels to contract.

• A styptic pencil can help stop the bleeding from small cuts like razor nicks.
• The barber applied a styptic powder to stop the bleeding.