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Definition of tannin
tannin
/ˈtæn.ɪn/
tan · nin
Plural:tannins
•Adjective:tannic
tannin Lexical Profile
CEFR
C1
Grade
10
Tier
2
Usage
Top 10k
Syllables
2
tannin Game Scores & Validity
Scrabble US
Scrabble UK
WWF
Wordle Guess
• noun
1
Any of a class ofbitter, astringent polyphenolic organic compounds found in various plant tissues—such as oak bark, grape skins, tea leaves, and unripe fruits—used commercially in tanning leather, dyeing fabrics, and clarifying wine or beer.
Example
"Steeping the black tea leaves for too long releases excess tannin, giving the brew a noticeably bitter and dry taste."
Synonyms
View all synonyms for tannin• Rhymes for tannin
Word Origin & Etymology
Borrowed in the late 18th century from French 'tannin', derived from the verb 'tanner' (to tan hides), which comes from Medieval Latin 'tannare' and ultimately from a Celtic root referring to the oak tree whose bark was used in leatherworking.
Cite this Entry
Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Tannin. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/tannin