acerb

Definition

Sour, bitter, and harsh to the taste, such as unripe fruit.

Etymology

From Latin acerbus, from Latin ācer (“sharp”): compare French acerbe. See acrid.

Example Sentences

• "If you put Spirit of Sulphur to the Peruvian Bark, it then becomes very acerb. If you mix Mercury with Spirit of Nitre or Oil of Vitriol whilst it boils, it then is very acerb."
• "As to the somewhat acerb remarks of the member for Jacques Cartier, I may pass them over […]"

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