acidity

noun

acid·​i·​ty ə-ˈsi-də-tē How to pronounce acidity (audio)
a-
plural acidities
1
: the quality, state, or degree of being acid
2
: the state of being excessively acid

Examples of acidity in a Sentence

detected a certain acidity in the way he responded the acidity of their relationship was well known to their mutual acquaintances
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
The backset's acidity lowers the mash's pH, which helps control unwanted bacterial growth. Joseph V Micallef, Forbes.com, 26 Apr. 2025 May Boost Skin Health Topical apple cider vinegar is a popular natural skin treatment for acne and eczema based on the assumption that ACV’s acidity can balance pH levels and fight germs on the skin. Amy Brownstein, Ms, Rdn, Verywell Health, 25 Apr. 2025 Volcanic ash alters the acidity of soil and introduces harmful elements such as arsenic and sulfur into the environment. David Kitchen, The Conversation, 15 Apr. 2025 Tannins ran to the polished and luscious side rather than grippy or chewy, and acidity tended to be on the vivid and bright end of the spectrum. Mike Desimone and Jeff Jenssen, Robb Report, 14 Apr. 2025 See All Example Sentences for acidity

Word History

Etymology

borrowed from French & Late Latin; French acidité, going back to Middle French, borrowed from Late Latin aciditāt-, aciditās, from Latin acidus "sour, acid entry 2" + -itāt-, -itās -ity

First Known Use

1615, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of acidity was in 1615

Cite this Entry

“Acidity.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/acidity. Accessed 29 Apr. 2025.

Kids Definition

acidity

noun
acid·​i·​ty ə-ˈsid-ət-ē How to pronounce acidity (audio)
a-
plural acidities
1
: the quality, state, or degree of being acid
2
: the state of being extremely acid

Medical Definition

acidity

noun
acid·​i·​ty ə-ˈsid-ət-ē, a- How to pronounce acidity (audio)
plural acidities
1
: the quality, state, or degree of being sour or chemically acid
the acidity of lemon juice
2
: the quality or state of being excessively or abnormally acid : hyperacidity

More from Merriam-Webster on acidity

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