tanned; tanning
Definition of tan
(Entry 1 of 4)
1
: to make (skin) tan especially by exposure to the sun
2a
: to convert (hide) into leather by treatment with an infusion of tannin-rich bark or other agent of similar effect
b
: to convert (protein) to leather or a similar substance
: to get or become tan
tan
adjective
tanner; tannest
Definition of tan (Entry 2 of 4)
1
: of the color tan
2
: of, relating to, or used for tan or tanning
tan
nounDefinition of tan (Entry 3 of 4)
1
: a brown color imparted to the skin especially by exposure to the sun
2
: a light yellowish brown
3
tans plural
: tan-colored articles of clothing
4
: a tanning material or its active agent (such as tannin)
tan
abbreviationDefinition of tan (Entry 4 of 4)
tangent
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Merriam-Webster unabridged
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Time Traveler for tan
The first known use of tan was in the 13th century
See more words from the same century