Definition

1. Adjective:
   • Being sour to the taste: Having a sharp, tart, or acidic flavor.

Usage

• The word "acidulent" is a descriptive adjective used to characterize the taste of food, drinks, or substances. It is a formal or technical term, often used in scientific, culinary, or literary contexts to describe a pronounced sour quality.

Examples

• The acidulent flavor of the unripe fruit made her mouth pucker.
• The sauce had a pleasantly acidulent note that balanced the richness of the dish.
• Some mineral waters are naturally acidulent due to dissolved carbon dioxide.

Advanced Usage

• In a figurative sense: While primarily used for literal taste, "acidulent" can occasionally be used metaphorically to describe speech or writing that is sharp or biting in tone.
  • His acidulent remarks left a sour impression on the audience.

Variants and Related Words

• Acidulous (adj): This is a more common synonym with the same meaning—slightly sour or sharp in taste or manner.
• Acidity (n): The quality of being acid or sour.
• Acid (n/adj): A substance with a sour taste; having the properties of an acid.

Synonyms

• Sour
• Tart
• Tangy
• Sharp
• Acrid (specifically for a harsh, bitter, or irritating taste or smell)

Antonyms

• Sweet
• Bland
• Mild

Adjective

1. being sour to the taste