astringent

1 of 2

adjective

as·​trin·​gent ə-ˈstrin-jənt How to pronounce astringent (audio)
1
: causing a tightening of soft organic tissues : styptic
2
: suggestive of an astringent effect upon tissue : rigidly severe : austere
dry astringent comments
also : pungent, caustic
astringently adverb

astringent

2 of 2

noun

: an astringent agent or substance: such as
a
: a medicine for checking the discharge of mucus or serum by causing shrinkage of tissue
b
: a liquid cosmetic for cleansing the skin and contracting the pores

Examples of astringent in a Sentence

Adjective an astringent critic of modern movies
Recent Examples on the Web
These examples are automatically compiled from online sources to illustrate current usage. Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.
Adjective
These attacks were trying to get at the base of many different aspects of the war economy by taking out a cleaner and an astringent. Peter Suciu, Forbes, 22 Oct. 2024 This gentle, astringent formula is a good fit for oily and dry skin alike, helping to unclog pores and strengthen the skin barrier. Annie Blackman, Allure, 10 Oct. 2024
Noun
Use mild products: Avoid skin products that can irritate, such as toners, astringents, and exfoliants. Mark Gurarie, Health, 28 Oct. 2024 Streets suggests this is because some formulas can contain harsh astringents. Jacqueline Kilikita, refinery29.com, 31 Jan. 2024 See all Example Sentences for astringent 

Word History

Etymology

Adjective

probably from Middle French, from Latin astringent-, astringens, present participle of astringere to bind fast, from ad- + stringere to bind tight — more at strain

Noun

derivative of astringent entry 1

First Known Use

Adjective

circa 1541, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Noun

1626, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of astringent was circa 1541

Dictionary Entries Near astringent

Cite this Entry

“Astringent.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/astringent. Accessed 9 Nov. 2024.

Kids Definition

astringent

1 of 2 adjective
as·​trin·​gent ə-ˈstrin-jənt How to pronounce astringent (audio)
: able or tending to shrink body tissues
astringent lotions
astringently adverb

astringent

2 of 2 noun
: an astringent substance

Medical Definition

astringent

1 of 2 adjective
as·​trin·​gent ə-ˈstrin-jənt How to pronounce astringent (audio)
: having the property of causing contraction of soft organic tissues
astringent cosmetic lotions
: as
a
: tending to shrink mucous membranes or raw or exposed tissues : checking discharge (as of serum or mucus) : styptic
b
: tending to pucker the tissues of the mouth
astringent fruits
astringency noun
plural astringencies

astringent

2 of 2 noun
: an astringent agent or substance
Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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