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

Woody spice notes compliment a solid structural backbone with firm tannin and racy acidity. —Joseph V Micallef, Forbes, 27 Dec. 2024

With a high level of tannins, the shampoo also helps reduce oiliness and inflammation in the scalp. —Kiana Murden, Vogue, 18 Dec. 2024

Rich, velvety, and savory palate, waxy notes, and oak tannins end on a finish that lasts forever. —Joseph V Micallef, Forbes, 24 Dec. 2024

The white is lean with citric elements; the richer rosé is nicely scaffolded with tannin ($19.99, betterrhodes.com). —Florence Fabricant, New York Times, 24 Dec. 2024

Word History

Etymology

French, from tanner to tan

First Known Use

1802, in the meaning defined at sense 1

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