tannin

noun

tan·​nin ˈta-nən 

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

In addition, the technology will strip out the tannins and organic matter that give the water from Fiveash its yellow tint, said Joey Padron, vice president of the Prospect Lake Clean Water Center. —Susannah Bryan, Sun Sentinel, 21 June 2026

The wine has an appealing tension to it, with fresh acidity and fine tannins creating a sense of energy throughout the palate. —Emily Cappiello, Forbes.com, 18 June 2026

Flavors of black cherry, star anise, and mint are set into downy tannins that linger on the palate. —Mike Desimone, Robb Report, 17 June 2026

The polyphenols and tannins in coffee bind to iron in the digestive tract and block it from being absorbed. —Allison Palmer updated June 13, Sacbee.com, 13 June 2026

Word History

Etymology

French, from tanner to tan

First Known Use

1802, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Rhymes for tannin

• canon
• fanon
• mannan
• olecranon
• trianon

Kids Definition

tannin

noun

tan·​nin ˈtan-ən 

: 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 

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