Definition

Describing something that is becoming sour or acidic, often used to refer to food or drink that is starting to spoil or ferment.

Example

The acescent taste of the fruit made it less appealing to some.

Conversation

I tried that new yogurt flavor, and it was surprisingly acescent.

Really? I was hoping it would be sweet instead.

Yeah, it definitely had a tangy twist to it, almost sour.

I'll have to be careful about which ones I choose then!

Synonyms & Antonyms

Definition

A substance that is likely to turn sour or acidic over time.

Example

The acescent liquid in the bottle had a distinct tangy smell.

Conversation

Did you notice how that fruit started to smell funny?

Yeah, I think it might be acescent already.

I guess we should eat it quickly before it gets worse.

Root Explanation

Acescent → It is formed from "acere" (meaning to be sour) and the suffix "-escent" (meaning becoming). The word "acescent" describes something that is becoming sour or turning sour.

Memory Tip

Think of something that is 'becoming sour' — 'acere' means to be sour, and '-escent' indicates a process of change.

Visually Confused Words