What does sourer mean?
Sourer is the comparative form of the adjective sour. It describes something with a sharper, more acidic, or more tart taste than another thing, as in “This cheese is sourer than the cheddar.” The word can also be used figuratively to describe a situation, attitude, or relationship that has become more bitter, unpleasant, or resentful. For example, someone may say that an argument became sourer after the participants began insulting one another. Sourer is especially useful when making a direct comparison between two tastes, experiences, or attitudes. It appears in both British and American English, although “more sour” is sometimes preferred in more formal prose. The related superlative is sourest.
adjectiveComparative of sour: having a sharper or more acidic taste than something else; figuratively, more bitter, unpleasant, or resentful.
- Having a more acidic, tart, or unpalatable taste than something else.
- More bitter, resentful, or unpleasant in tone or manner.
"The lemonade tasted sourer after it had been left in the sun."
"The lemonade tasted sourer after I left it in the sun."
"Relations became sourer when neither side was willing to apologize."
Sourer is the comparative of sour: it describes a sharper degree of the same taste.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does sourer come from?
The word sour derives from Old English sūr, an inherited Germanic adjective with relatives including German sauer and Dutch zuur. The comparative sourer was formed in English by adding the standard comparative suffix -er to sour. Its basic literal sense concerns a sharp or acidic taste, while its figurative sense developed by extension toward bitterness and unpleasantness.
Related word forms
How sourer is actually used
Sourer is the standard comparative of sour in both British and American English. The phrase “more sour” is also common, especially when the comparison is being made explicit.