SOUR

Definition of SOUR

SOUR Adjective and Noun

Sour is primarily an adjective that describes a taste sensation characterized by acidity or bitterness, often unpleasant to the palate. It can also function as a noun, referring to something with a sour taste or a person who behaves in a sour manner.

SOUR as an adjective

As an adjective, sour describes flavors that are acidic or bitter, typically due to the presence of substances like citric acid or lactic acid. Foods such as lemons, vinegar, or unripe fruits often have a sour taste, which can evoke puckering or unpleasant sensations in the mouth.

Acidity and Bitterness: The sour taste sensation is primarily attributed to the presence of acids in foods or beverages. These acids stimulate taste receptors on the tongue, triggering a perception of tartness or acidity. While some people enjoy the tangy flavor of sour foods, others find it too intense or unpleasant.

Expression and Demeanor: In addition to describing taste, sour can also refer to a person’s expression or demeanor when they are displeased, discontented, or in a bad mood. A sour expression might involve a frown, narrowed eyes, or pursed lips, indicating irritation, dissatisfaction, or resentment.

SOUR as a noun

As a noun, sour refers to something with a sour taste or a person who behaves in a sour manner. For example, “She made a face at the sour” or “His constant complaints earned him a reputation as a sour.”

Spoilage and Fermentation: In the context of food, sour can also indicate that something has gone bad or undergone fermentation, resulting in an off-putting taste or smell. Milk, for example, can turn sour when it spoils due to the growth of bacteria that produce lactic acid.

Figurative Usage: Beyond its literal meaning, sour can be used figuratively to describe attitudes, relationships, or experiences that are unpleasant, disappointing, or disheartening. For example, a sour relationship might be characterized by constant conflict or resentment, while a sour experience might leave a bitter or regretful feeling.

Cultural References: Sour flavors have different cultural associations around the world. In some cuisines, such as those in Southeast Asia, sour ingredients like tamarind or lime are used to balance flavors and add brightness to dishes. In Western cultures, sour candies or beverages are enjoyed as a unique taste experience.

In conclusion, sour describes taste sensations characterized by acidity or bitterness, as well as expressions or demeanors indicating displeasure or discontent. Whether used as an adjective or a noun, sour flavors and attitudes play a diverse role in culinary traditions and everyday experiences.

Examples of SOUR in a sentence

SOUR as an adjective in a sentence

  • The milk had turned sour after being left out for too long.
  • She made a sour face after tasting the spoiled fruit.
  • His sour attitude made it difficult to work with him.
  • The weather took a sour turn, ruining their outdoor plans.
  • The relationship between the two countries had grown sour over recent disagreements.
  • The lemonade tasted too sour without enough sugar.
  • Her sour mood affected the entire office.
  • The grapes had a sour flavor that puckered his mouth.

SOUR as a noun in a sentence

  • She detected a hint of sour in the wine, indicating it had gone bad.
  • The cook added a touch of vinegar to give the dish a hint of sour.
  • The candy had a tangy sour that made her lips pucker.
  • He wrinkled his nose at the sour smell emanating from the garbage.
  • The sour of the milk was a sign that it had spoiled.
  • She preferred the sweetness of ripe fruit over the sour of unripe ones.
  • The chef balanced the dish with a touch of sour to complement the savory flavors.
  • He enjoyed the contrast of sweet and sour in the salad dressing.

Origin of SOUR

The word sour has its roots in Old English and Proto-Germanic. Here’s a breakdown of its etymology:

  • Old English Origins: The term sour dates back to Old English as “sūr,” which meant having an acidic or sharp taste. It is related to similar words in other Germanic languages, such as Old High German “sūr” and Old Norse “súrr.”
  • Proto-Germanic Roots: The Proto-Germanic word “*sūraz” is the reconstructed ancestor of sour and its cognates in other Germanic languages. It is believed to have derived from the Proto-Indo-European root “*sūros,” meaning sour or “salt.”
  • Semantic Evolution: Initially, sour specifically referred to the taste of acidic or fermented substances, such as sour milk or sour fruits. Over time, its meaning expanded to describe anything with a sharp or unpleasant taste, and it came to be associated with emotions like resentment or displeasure.

Overall, the etymology of sour reflects its ancient origins in Proto-Germanic and Proto-Indo-European languages, its evolution to encompass both taste and metaphorical meanings, and its continued usage in modern English to describe acidity, unpleasantness, or bitterness.

Synonyms

  • Tart
  • Acidic
  • Acidulous
  • Bitter
  • Vinegary
  • Astringent
  • Sharp
  • Pungent

Antonyms

  • Sweet
  • Mild
  • Delicate
  • Subtle
  • Pleasant
  • Mellow
  • Gentle
  • Soft

Related

  • Sourness
  • Acidity
  • Tangy
  • Citrus
  • Acid
  • Fermentation
  • Pickle
  • Tamarind

🌐 🇬🇧 SOUR in other languages

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