tartar — a hard yellowish deposit that forms on teeth
Part of speech: NOUN
Definition: a hard yellowish deposit that forms on teeth
Pronunciation (IPA): /ˈtɑːrtər/
Example Sentences
- My dentist said I have so much tartar, my teeth look like ancient ruins.
- Regular brushing helps prevent tartar formation.
- She added cream of tartar to make the meringue fluffy.
tartar
NOUN[/ˈtɑːrtər/]
a hard yellowish deposit that forms on teeth
Yellow deposits on teeth
Be a smarter starter against tartar!
Got the picture? Now let's practice.
🎤Pronunciation
🌳Etymology
Origin
The word derives from Medieval Latin tartarum, originally referring to the sediment or crust that accumulates at the bottom of wine casks during fermentation. The term was later extended metaphorically to describe the similar crusty deposits that form on teeth.
Breakdown
tartarum (wine sediment) → tartar. The root tartarum itself has uncertain ultimate origins, possibly from Arabic or Greek sources, but entered European languages through Medieval Latin wine-making terminology.
🎵Rhyme
🔗Collocations
📝Examples
“My dentist said I have so much tartar, my teeth look like ancient ruins.”
“Regular brushing helps prevent tartar formation.”
“She added cream of tartar to make the meringue fluffy.”
“The tartar on his teeth was so thick, he could write his name on it.”
📚Related Words
Want to master 27,000+ words?
Sign up free for flashcards & quizzes.