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

People have been using milk or cream to mellow the bitter tannins of black tea for centuries. —Han Zhang, The New Yorker, 2 Oct. 2024

Many reds are not, such as the full-bodied Cabernet Sauvignon, as a higher temperature only highlights its aromas, flavors, and tannins. —Elise Taylor, Vogue, 27 Sep. 2024

Great varietal purity, subdued wood notes, graceful tannins and pinpoint acidity are signatures of the Poderi Oddero Barolos. —Tom Hyland, Forbes, 21 Sep. 2024

Polished tannins and full mouthfeel supply a gorgeous backdrop for flavors of black cherry, blackberry cobbler, and black olive tapenade with a soft note of cigar box that lingers on the expressive finish. —Mike Desimone and Jeff Jenssen, Robb Report, 17 Sep. 2024

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