Main Entry:

¹as·trin·gent

Pronunciation:

\-jənt\

Function:

adjective

Etymology:

probably from Middle French, from Latin astringent-, astringens, present participle of astringere to bind fast, from ad- + stringere to bind tight — more at strain

Date:

1541

1: causing contraction of soft organic tissues : styptic, puckery <astringent lotions> <an astringent fruit>2: suggestive of an astringent effect upon tissue : rigidly severe : austere <dry astringent comments> ; also : pungent, caustic

— as·trin·gent·ly adverb