ferment
1 synonyms and 0 antonyms for ferment, grouped by meaning and by how common each one is.
Verb — To undergo a chemical change caused by yeast or bacteria, often turning sugars into alcohol or acid.
How to use ferment
The word patterns that sound natural to a native speaker.
Etymology
From Latin fermentum, "substance that causes fermenting," related to fervere, "to boil" — the same root behind fervent.
Full origin of ferment →Frequently asked questions
What does “ferment” mean?
The word “ferment” means to undergo a chemical change caused by yeast or bacteria, often turning sugars into alcohol or acid. In plain terms, the chemical process where yeast or bacteria break down sugars — used literally for brewing/food, and figuratively for stirred-up unrest.
How do you pronounce “ferment”?
“Ferment” is pronounced fuh-MEHNT (/fɚˈmɛnt/ in IPA).
How do you use “ferment” in a sentence?
Here is “ferment” used in a sentence: “The grape juice was left to ferment in oak barrels for a year.”
What is another word for “ferment”?
Words with a similar meaning to “ferment” include yeast.
What part of speech is “ferment”?
Depending on how it is used, “ferment” can be a verb and a noun.
Where does the word “ferment” come from?
The word “ferment” comes from Latin. From Latin fermentum, "substance that causes fermenting," related to fervere, "to boil" — the same root behind fervent.
How many meanings does “ferment” have?
“Ferment” has 3 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: to undergo a chemical change caused by yeast or bacteria, often turning sugars into alcohol or acid.