tartar

noun (1)

tar·tar | \ ˈtär-tər

How to pronounce tartar (audio)

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Definition of tartar

(Entry 1 of 2)

1 : an incrustation on the teeth consisting of plaque that has become hardened by the deposition of mineral salts (such as calcium carbonate)

2 : a substance consisting essentially of cream of tartar that is derived from the juice of grapes and deposited in wine casks together with yeast and other suspended matters as a pale or dark reddish crust or sediment especially : a recrystallized product yielding cream of tartar on further purification

tartar

noun (2)

Definition of tartar (Entry 2 of 2)

1 capitalized : a native or inhabitant of Tartary

2 capitalized : tatar sense 2

3 often capitalized : a person of irritable or violent temper

4 : one that proves to be unexpectedly formidable

Other Words from tartar Phrases Containing tartar Learn More About tartar

History and Etymology for tartar

Noun (1)

Middle English, from Anglo-French, from Medieval Latin tartarum

Noun (2)

Middle English Tartre, from Middle French Tartare, probably from Medieval Latin Tartarus, modification of Persian Tātār — more at tatar

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Cite this Entry

“Tartar.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/tartar. Accessed 17 Aug. 2022.

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More Definitions for tartar

tartar

noun

tar·tar | \ ˈtär-tər

\

Kids Definition of tartar

: a crust that forms on the teeth and consists of plaque that has become hardened by the deposit of calcium-containing salts

tartar

noun

tar·tar | \ ˈtärt-ər

\

Medical Definition of tartar

: an incrustation on the teeth consisting of plaque that has become hardened by the deposition of mineral salts (as calcium carbonate)

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