acidulous

[ uh-sij-uh-luhs ]

adjective

1. slightly sour.
2. sharp; caustic:

   his acidulous criticism of the book.

3. moderately acid or tart; subacid.

acidulous

/ əˈsɪdjʊləs /

adjective

1. rather sour
2. sharp or sour in speech, manner, etc; acid

Other Words From

• suba·cidu·lous adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of acidulous¹

From the Latin word acidulus, dating back to 1760–70. See acid, -ulous

Word History and Origins

Origin of acidulous¹

C18: from Latin acidulus sourish, diminutive of acidus sour

Example Sentences

There was an acidulous resentment in the tone of her answer that indicated that she wanted her husband to send me away.

From Project Gutenberg

Manufacturers of sugar should be, therefore, particularly watchful against every acidulous taint or impregnation.

From Project Gutenberg

The alternately rich and acidulous color is faded; an icy green predominates.

From Project Gutenberg

The pulp between the nuts is the part eaten, and it is of a pleasant juicy nature, having a sweet acidulous taste.

From Project Gutenberg

They may be divided into thermal or warm acidulous waters, and cold acidulous waters.

From Project Gutenberg