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

Silky tannins in the mid palate support flavors of cocoa, black raspberry, and plum. — Mike Desimone, Robb Report, 30 July 2026

Blackwater of the Okefenokee Swamp, caused by tannins leached from decaying vegetation, reflects cypress trees at the Okefenokee National Wildlife Refuge, Tuesday, August 12, 2025, in Folkston. — Charles Seabrook, AJC.com, 25 July 2026

Green tea extract adds a touch of fine tannin, and the wine is gently saturated with CO2 for a persistent fizz. — Lauren Jarvis-Gibson july 22, Charlotte Observer, 22 July 2026

The leaves produce a more aromatic and delicate liqueur, while the berries contribute greater tannin, fruit, and concentration. — Layne Randolph, Forbes.com, 21 July 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