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astringent
astringent definition
as·trin·gent (ə strin′jənt)
adjective
- that contracts body tissue and checks secretions, capillary bleeding, etc.; styptic
- having a harsh, biting quality an astringent style of writing
Etymology: L astringens, prp. of stringere, to contract < ad-, to + stringere, draw tight: see strict
noun
an astringent substance, drug, etc.
Related Forms:
- astringency as·trin′·gency noun
- astringently as·trin′·gently adverb
Webster's New World College Dictionary Copyright © 2005 by Wiley Publishing, Inc., Cleveland, Ohio.
Used by arrangement with John Wiley & Sons, Inc.
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