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

Persimmon contains tannins thought to help neutralize odor-causing compounds on the skin, and the ingredient story (natural, plant-derived, targeted at a specific compound) fits what midlife shoppers are already buying. — Samantha Agate, Miami Herald, 5 Oct. 2026

Naturally With Persimmon Soap Persimmon soap has emerged as a popular natural option because the fruit contains tannins that may help neutralize odor-causing compounds on the skin. — Samantha Agate, Sacbee.com, 5 Oct. 2026

Its high tannins make Cabernet Franc a good choice when having a late summer or early fall barbecue with friends. — Jeremy Repanich, Robb Report, 25 Sep. 2026

Coffee tannins cause stubborn stains by seeping into porous ceramic surfaces. — Brandee Gruener, Southern Living, 24 Sep. 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