mordant

Estimated CEFR level: C2 — Proficiency

Estimated from word frequency; not an official CEFR classification.

Definition

  1. noun a substance used to treat leather or other materials before dyeing; aids in dyeing process
  2. adjective harshly ironic or sinister
  3. adjective of a substance, especially a strong acid; capable of destroying or eating away by chemical action

Etymology

From French mordant, from Latin mordeō. Doublet of mordent.

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