Langimage
English

vinegary

|vin/e/gar/y|

C1

/ˈvɪnɪɡəri/

sour or sharp

Etymology
Etymology Information

'vinegary' originates from the word 'vinegar', which comes from Old French 'vinaigre', meaning 'sour wine'.

Historical Evolution

'vinaigre' transformed into the Middle English word 'vinegre', and eventually became the modern English word 'vinegar', from which 'vinegary' is derived.

Meaning Changes

Initially, it meant 'sour wine', but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'having a sour taste or sharp manner'.

Meanings by Part of Speech

Adjective 1

having a sour, acidic taste or smell, similar to vinegar.

The salad had a vinegary dressing that was quite tangy.

Synonyms

Antonyms

Adjective 2

having a sharp, caustic, or irritable tone or manner.

Her vinegary comments made the meeting uncomfortable.

Synonyms

Antonyms

Last updated: 2025/01/24 07:59