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

With its striking aromatics of tomatoes and olives, this powerful, expressive Greek red-grape variety boasts the boldness, tannins, and body required to stand up to any truffle or porcini dish. —Jason O'Bryan, Robb Report, 12 Nov. 2023

Broken rocks, blackcurrants, fresh sage and black raspberry with fine tannins and a spicy finish. —Cathrine Todd, Forbes, 9 Mar. 2023

According to the cooperage, the T5 barrel is made from fine-grain wood that is seasoned in open air for five years before being assembled, and adds intense flavor, aroma, and tannins to any wine or spirit matured in this type of cask. —Jonah Flicker, Robb Report, 17 Oct. 2023

The fruit and tannin of a good Burgundy linger in the mouth as a baguette is chewed, finding in its texture at once crunchy and pillowy, and its mild saltiness, the perfect cradle. —Roger Cohen, New York Times, 29 Sep. 2023

Camellia sinensis, the tea plant, contains tannins. —Dr. Keith Roach, oregonlive, 6 July 2023

Oxalic acid removes tannin stains, and chlorine bleach removes mildew stains. —Jeanne Huber, Washington Post, 7 Apr. 2023

The toasting process breaks down starch and other polymers, called lignins and tannins, in the oak. —Michael W. Crowder, Fortune, 14 Sep. 2023

The soft tannins and bright acidity typical of malbec grown in the Andes foothills is ideal for meals like this. —Dave McIntyre, Washington Post, 17 Aug. 2023

See More

Word History

Etymology

French, from tanner to tan

First Known Use

1802, in the meaning defined at sense 1

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