Vocabulary Spotlight

Acidulous

Part of Speech: Adjective

Definition: Slightly sour or sharp in taste or manner; having a mild acidity or a slightly bitter tone.

“Her acidulous remarks left the room in an uncomfortable silence.”

Pronunciation

[uh-SID-yuh-luhs]

Synonyms, Antonyms & Related Words

Synonyms

Tart
Sour
Sharp
Biting
Caustic

Antonyms

Sweet
Mild
Gentle
Smooth
Pleasant

Related Words

Acerbic
Acidic
Sour

Word Origin

“Acidulous” derives from the Latin “acidulus,” meaning “somewhat sour.”

Word Family

Adjective: Acidulous – Mildly acidic or sour in tone or taste.

Adjective: Acidic – Having a sour or sharp taste.

Noun: Acidity – The quality of being acidic.

Mnemonics

Think “A Slight Sourness” – Acidulous describes a mildly sour taste or tone.

Industry-specific Usage

Gastronomy

In food, acidulous flavors add a tangy quality, enhancing dishes with a touch of sourness.

Literature

In writing, acidulous comments are those that have a subtly biting or ironic tone.

Communication

Acidulous remarks in communication often convey mild sarcasm or criticism.

In Context

Acidulous is commonly used to describe things that are slightly sour or sharp, whether in taste or in the subtle sting of words. It implies a milder degree of acerbity.

Vocabulary Challenges

1. Which is a synonym of “Acidulous”?

Tart
Sweet
Mild
Gentle

‘Tart’ is correct as both words describe a slight sourness or sharpness.

2. Fill in the blank: The lemonade had an _______ taste that was refreshing in the summer heat.

sweet
gentle
smooth
acidulous

‘Acidulous’ is appropriate as it describes a slightly sour taste.

3. In which context would “acidulous” be MOST appropriate?

Describing a sweet dessert
Describing a mildly sharp remark
Talking about a gentle lullaby
Referring to a smooth flavor

‘Describing a mildly sharp remark’ is appropriate as acidulous implies slight sharpness in tone or taste.