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Ferment Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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ferment

[หˆfษ™หmษ›nt ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Verb

food production

Cause a liquid to undergo fermentation.

Synonyms

brew, make, produce.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
ferment

This word is used when talking about a chemical process where substances break down into simpler substances, typically to produce alcohol or to preserve food.

  • The grapes need to ferment for several weeks before they become wine
  • Kimchi is made by fermenting cabbage and other vegetables
brew

This word is often used when referring to the process of making beer, tea, or coffee by soaking, boiling, and fermenting.

  • She likes to brew her own beer at home
  • He woke up early to brew a fresh pot of coffee
produce

This is used when discussing the creation of goods or results, typically in large quantities or in an industrial context.

  • The factory produces thousands of cars every month
  • Organic farms produce fruits and vegetables without using synthetic chemicals
make

A general word used for creating or producing various items or products. Itโ€™s not specific to any one process or type of product.

  • She knows how to make delicious cakes
  • They will make the new software by the end of the year

Examples of usage

  • yeast is used to ferment the malted grain
  • the sugar ferments and turns into alcohol
Context #2 | Noun

biology

The chemical breakdown of a substance by bacteria, yeasts, or other microorganisms, typically involving effervescence and the giving off of heat.

Synonyms

bacterial breakdown, enzymatic breakdown, microbial breakdown.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
ferment

Though this is a repetition due to a possible typo, it can also be used metaphorically to describe a state of agitation or excitement.

  • The political situation was in ferment.
enzymatic breakdown

More specific and technical, this term is used when referring to the process where enzymes, which are proteins, catalyze the decomposition of substances. It is usually mentioned in biological, chemical, or medical discussions.

  • The enzymatic breakdown of carbohydrates starts in the mouth.
  • Different enzymes are responsible for the enzymatic breakdown of fats and proteins.
bacterial breakdown

This term is typically used in scientific or environmental contexts to describe the process where bacteria decompose organic matter. It can also be used when talking about the digestive process in living organisms.

  • The bacterial breakdown of waste in the landfill produces methane gas.
  • Bacterial breakdown in the stomach helps digest food.
microbial breakdown

Similar to bacterial breakdown but more general, this term is used to describe the process by which various microorganisms decompose organic materials. It can be used in environmental sciences, waste management, and agriculture.

  • Compost piles rely on microbial breakdown to convert plant waste into nutrient-rich soil.
  • Microbial breakdown is essential in the treatment of sewage water.

Examples of usage

  • the ferment of the grape juice

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Science

  • Fermentation is primarily carried out by yeast or bacteria, which are microorganisms crucial in various food production.
  • During fermentation, sugars are converted into alcohol and carbon dioxide, which is why breads rise and beverages become bubbly.
  • The temperature and environment can significantly impact fermentation, making it a precise art in food and drink preparation.

Cultural Practices

  • Many cultures have their own traditional fermented foods, such as kimchi in Korea, sauerkraut in Germany, and miso in Japan.
  • Fermentation has been used for centuries not only for food preservation but also for its health benefits, including improved digestion.
  • In some cultures, drinks like kefir and kombucha have gained popularity for their probiotic benefits, stemming from the fermentation process.

Pop Culture

  • In recent years, interest in home brewing and DIY fermenting has surged, reflected in numerous books and workshops dedicated to the craft.
  • Fermented foods have become trendy in health circles, with various diets emphasizing the importance of gut health linked to these products.
  • Popular cooking shows often showcase fermentation techniques, highlighting its artistic and scientific attributes in modern culinary arts.

History

  • The earliest evidence of fermentation dates back to about 7000-6600 BCE in ancient China, linked to the production of rice wine.
  • Egyptians utilized fermentation to create beer, eventually spreading the technique through trade and conquest in the ancient world.
  • During the Middle Ages, monasteries became hubs for fermentation, as monks brewed beer and produced other fermented goods like cheese for sustenance.

Origin of 'ferment'

Main points about word origin

  • The word comes from the Latin 'fermentare,' meaning 'to boil' or 'to rise,' referring to the bubbling action during the process.
  • The Old French word 'ferment' also had a similar meaning, illustrating its long-standing presence in culinary practices.
  • The term has been used since the late 14th century, indicating its historical importance in food preservation techniques.

The word 'ferment' comes from the Latin word 'fermentare', which means 'to leaven, ferment'. The process of fermentation has been used by humans for thousands of years to produce food and beverages such as bread, beer, and wine. It involves the conversion of sugars into alcohol and gases by yeast or bacteria. Fermentation is also a key process in the production of dairy products like yogurt and cheese.

See also: fermentation, fermenter, fermenting.

Word Frequency Rank

At position #14,224, this word is part of sophisticated English vocabulary. It's useful for academic or professional contexts where precise language is needed.