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

Their Ashes & Diamonds 2019 V.1 Bordeaux-style red blend has aromas of cassis, black raspberry, and graphite with rounded tannins and flavors of black cherry, tobacco leaf, and black currant. —Mike Desimone, Robb Report, 10 July 2025

Very elegant and streamlined with silky tannins, and a long finish with refreshing acidity. —Liz Thach, Forbes.com, 8 July 2025

Many of North Carolina’s rivers and lakes are rich in tannins—a naturally occurring compound found in trees—which seems to help protect the wooden vessels. —Sarah Kuta, Smithsonian Magazine, 2 July 2025

While not all wines are keg-friendly, Mincey said white wines and those with lower tannins tend to store best on tap. —Irene Adeline Milanez, Sacbee.com, 28 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