Definition

Having a sharp, unpleasant taste or smell that is often associated with something that is not sweet; more intense in this quality than something that is simply bitter.

Example

The coffee was even bitterer than I expected, making it hard to enjoy.

Comparatives & Superlatives

Conversation

Have you tried that new coffee shop down the street?

Yeah, but I found their coffee a bit bitterer than I expected.

I thought the same thing; it's like they over-roasted the beans.

Exactly! I prefer my coffee to be smoother and less bitterer.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Bitterer → The word 'bitterer' is formed from 'bitter' (from Old English 'biter', meaning having a sharp taste or smell) and the comparative suffix '-er' (meaning more). The word 'bitterer' means more bitter than something else.

Memory Tip

Think of 'bitter' as having a sharp taste, and when you add '-er', it means something is even more sharp or unpleasant in taste.

Visually Confused Words