taster

noun

tast·​er ˈtā-stər How to pronounce taster (audio)
1
: one that tastes: such as
a
: one that tests something (such as tea) for quality by tasting
b
: a person who is able to taste the chemical phenylthiocarbamide
2
: a device for tasting or sampling

Examples of taster in a Sentence

The magazine printed a taster of the author's new novel.
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
While the film’s production struggles have come under scrutiny, the trailer gives a taster of the Saudi Arabia’s stunning backdrops as well as its cinema ambitions. Melanie Goodfellow, Deadline, 12 Mar. 2026 Most tasters appreciated that this spread had a nice taste and was not too sweet or overpowering. Catherine Jessee, Southern Living, 10 Mar. 2026 Our recipe tasters loved the combination of juicy whole berries and crisp topping. Sarah Martens, Better Homes & Gardens, 23 Feb. 2026 Our tasters said the winner should have robust flavor; dill, garlic, onion, and other herbs should be prominent. Sam Stone, Bon Appetit Magazine, 11 Feb. 2026 See All Example Sentences for taster

Word History

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of taster was in the 14th century

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Taster.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/taster. Accessed 16 Mar. 2026.

Kids Definition

taster

noun
tast·​er ˈtā-stər How to pronounce taster (audio)
: one that tastes: as
a
: a person who has the duty of tasting food or drink prepared for another person especially to test for poison
b
: a person who is able to taste the chemical phenylthiocarbamide

Medical Definition

taster

noun
tast·​er ˈtā-stər How to pronounce taster (audio)
: a person able to taste the chemical phenylthiocarbamide

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