tartar
Tartar (noun) means a hard yellowish deposit that builds up on teeth from unremoved plaque. Example: “Regular brushing helps prevent tartar buildup.”
How to use tartar
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishThe hard deposit that forms on teeth, or, informally, a fierce and demanding person.
Don't confuse with "tartare" (the raw-meat dish) or "Tatar" (referring to the Turkic ethnic group).
Word forms
more Tartar comparative, tartars plural, tartars plural, most Tartar superlative
Fill the gap
Can you complete this real example?
Regular brushing helps prevent _____ buildup.
Etymology
From Medieval Latin tartarum, itself from a Byzantine Greek word, possibly ultimately connected to an Arabic or Persian word for sediment or dregs.
Synonyms
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Frequently asked questions
What does “tartar” mean?
The word “tartar” means a hard yellowish deposit that builds up on teeth from unremoved plaque. In plain terms, the hard deposit that forms on teeth, or, informally, a fierce and demanding person.
How do you pronounce “tartar”?
“Tartar” is pronounced TAH-tuh (/ˈtɑɹ.tɚ/ in IPA).
How do you use “tartar” in a sentence?
Here is “tartar” used in a sentence: “Regular brushing helps prevent tartar buildup.”
What part of speech is “tartar”?
“Tartar” is a noun.
Where does the word “tartar” come from?
The word “tartar” comes from Medieval Latin. From Medieval Latin tartarum, itself from a Byzantine Greek word, possibly ultimately connected to an Arabic or Persian word for sediment or dregs.
How many meanings does “tartar” have?
“Tartar” has 2 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: a hard yellowish deposit that builds up on teeth from unremoved plaque.