Main Entry: ¹as·trin·gent

Pronunciation: \ə-ˈstrin-jənt\

Function: adjective

: having the property of causing contraction of soft organic tissues <astringent cosmetic lotions>: a : tending to shrink mucous membranes or raw or exposed tissues : checking discharge (as of serum or mucus) : styptic b : tending to pucker the tissues of the mouth <astringent fruits>

—as·trin·gen·cy \-jən-sē\ noun, plural as·trin·gen·cies