Souring Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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souring

[หˆsaสŠษ™rษชล‹ ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

food process

Souring refers to the process by which a food product, particularly dairy, undergoes fermentation and develops a tangy, acidic taste. This is often caused by the action of bacteria or yeast that convert sugars into acids. Souring can be intentional, as in the production of sour cream or yogurt, or unintended, leading to spoilage.

Synonyms

acidification, fermentation, turning sour.

Examples of usage

  • The souring of milk can lead to the making of cheese.
  • The process of souring in yogurt improves its flavor and texture.
  • Souring is essential in many fermentation processes.
Context #2 | Verb

food spoilage

To sour means to cause a food product, especially dairy, to become acidic and develop a tangy flavor, typically through fermentation or spoilage. This can happen naturally over time if the food is not stored properly. Souring can also refer to a change in flavor that might indicate that a food is no longer safe to eat.

Synonyms

acidify, ferment, spoil.

Examples of usage

  • Leaving the milk out for too long can sour it.
  • The cream will sour if not refrigerated.
  • You should use the yogurt before it sours.

Translations

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Origin of 'souring'

The term 'souring' originates from the Old English word 'sลซre', which means sour or acid. This word can be traced back to the Proto-Germanic *sura, which also means sour or acid. Over centuries, the meaning evolved and became associated not only with taste but also with the process of fermentation. In the context of food, souring has been a widely recognized phenomenon across various cultures, particularly in the context of preserving food and creating beverages like vinegar and fermented dairy products. The concept of souring has led to many culinary practices aimed at enhancing flavor through controlled fermentation processes.


Word Frequency Rank

This word's position of #31,509 indicates it's among the more rare English words. While understanding it broadens your vocabulary, focus on more common words first.