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

The oak tannins are pronounced, giving the whisky structure and complexity, while rancio hints of leather and furniture wax offer additional layers of flavor. —Joseph V Micallef, Forbes.com, 1 July 2025

Treating teatime like a wine tasting by noticing the tannins, flavor notes, and the viscosity of what’s in your cup is a great way to develop your palate. —Oset Babür-Winter, Bon Appetit Magazine, 1 May 2025

Each of our three Cabernets can be enjoyed in their youth but have enough tannin and concentration for significant bottle aging. —Tom Hyland, Forbes.com, 19 June 2025

Flavors of cranberry, pomegranate, milk chocolate, and juniper berry are wrapped in a sheath of polished tannins and brilliant acidity. —Mike Desimone, Robb Report, 12 June 2025

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