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Definition of sourness

sourness

/ˈsaʊ.ɚ.nəs/
sour · ness
Adverb:sourly
•
Plural:sournesses
•
Adjective:sour
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sourness Lexical Profile

sourness Game Scores & Validity

• noun

1

The quality or state of having an acidic, sharp, or tart taste, like that of lemon juice or vinegar.

Example

"A spoonful of honey helped balance the natural sourness of the fresh rhubarb pie."

2

A sullen, resentful, or disagreeable disposition, attitude, or mood.

Example

"After losing the championship match, a lingering sourness settled over the locker room."

3

The condition of being spoiled, fermented, or rancid, especially with regard to milk, food, or damp soil.

Example

"A distinct sourness in the milk carton indicated that the refrigerator had lost power overnight."

Synonyms
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Antonyms
View all antonyms for sourness

• Nearby Words

souris
sourish
sourly
sourness
sourpuss
sourpussed
soursop

Word Origin & Etymology

From Old English 'sūrnes', formed from the Germanic adjective 'sūr' (meaning acidic or bitter) and the suffix '-nes' denoting a state or quality.

Cite this Entry

Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Sourness. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/sourness
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