[ 'tα:tə ]
■ noun
1》 a hard calcified deposit that forms on the teeth and contributes to their decay.
2》 a deposit of impure potassium hydrogen tartrate formed during the fermentation of wine.
Phrases
cream of ~ potassium hydrogen tartrate, an acidic crystalline compound used in baking powder.
Origin
ME: via med. L. from med. Gk ~on , of unknown origin.