n.
Pronunciation: -j ə nt
Function: adjective
Etymology: probably from Middle French, from Latin astringent-, astringens, present participle of astringere to bind fast, from ad- + stringere to bind tight ― more at STRAIN
Date: 1541
1 : causing contraction of soft organic tissues : STYPTIC , PUCKERY < astringent lotions> <an astringent fruit>
2 : suggestive of an astringent effect upon tissue : rigidly severe : AUSTERE <dry astringent comments> also : PUNGENT , CAUSTIC
– as · trin · gent · ly adverb