astringent
/əˈstɹɪn.dʒənt/
Group 14Difficulty 2/3
Definition
- (adjective)
- Sharp or severe in manner or style; causing contraction of body tissues GRE
Example in Context
The reviewer's astringent critique spared no aspect of the production, from the weak performances to the pedestrian direction.
Synonyms
harshsharpsevere
Etymology
Something that 'binds' or tightens tissues.
- ad- (Latin) — to
- stringere (Latin) — to bind
Memory Aid
🎻Sounds like “a string gent”
The STRING GENT played a sharp note that made my mouth pucker — it was so ASTRINGENT!
Visual Association
😬A person sipping a bitter lemon juice and grimacing as their face contorts in reaction.
Semantic Clusters
Synonym Groups
Frequently Asked Questions
What does “astringent” mean on the GRE?
astringent (adjective) means “Sharp or severe in manner or style; causing contraction of body tissues”. The reviewer's astringent critique spared no aspect of the production, from the weak performances to the pedestrian direction.
How to remember “astringent” for the GRE?
Mnemonic: “astringent” sounds like “a string gent”. The STRING GENT played a sharp note that made my mouth pucker — it was so ASTRINGENT!
What are synonyms for “astringent”?
Common synonyms: harsh, sharp, severe.