Word
fermentation
Phoneticsfer·men·ta·tion, stress on the third syllable
US/ˌfɝmənˈteɪʃən/
UK/fɜːmɪntˈeɪʃən/
Definitions
01chemical process
B2 · Upper Intermediate Uncountable noun Science Technical
n. a process where yeast or bacteria break down sugar into alcohol or acid.
n. the anaerobic breakdown of organic substances by microorganisms, such as the conversion of sugars into ethanol or lactic acid.
“The fermentation of the grapes takes several weeks before the wine is ready.”
“Industrial fermentation requires precise temperature control to ensure that the yeast cultures remain active throughout the conversion process.”
Usage
Often used as an uncountable noun when discussing the general process.
Teaching tip
While technical, this is a high-frequency word for learners interested in cooking, brewing, or biology.
Synonyms
02social agitation
C2 · Proficiency Uncountable noun Literary · Formal
n. a state of social or political excitement and change.
n. a state of agitation, unrest, or intense activity, often preceding significant social or political change.
Español:fermentación
“The country was in a state of political fermentation before the revolution.”
“The intellectual fermentation of the late eighteenth century provided the necessary groundwork for the radical shifts in governance that followed.”
Usage
Usually used in the singular or as an uncountable noun.
Teaching tip
This sense is metaphorical; it compares the 'bubbling' of a chemical reaction to the 'bubbling' of social unrest.
Real-World Examples
“In industrial production, bacteria are grown inside large fermentation tanks and given carbon-rich materials such as sugars, starch, or plant oils.” “Jinotega and Segovia lots show this progression clearly: extended fermentation and controlled drying push nutty fermentation profiles toward roasted, savory depth.” “Typical fermentation runs 12–48 hours, depending on temperature, altitude, and tank conditions.” “In wet-processed coffees, the fermentation stage may bring out deeper, earthy qualities, while dry-processed coffees often feature more fruit-forward or spicy notes.” Etymology
From Middle English fermentacioun, from Latin fermentātiō, fermentātiōnem. By surface analysis, ferment + -ation.
Etymology adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.
Word family
VERB
NOUN
- Exam level
- CambridgeCambridgeCambridge English QualificationsThe exam suite from Cambridge University Press & Assessment, from A1 Movers up to C2 Proficiency. The benchmark names double as CEFR labels.B2 FirstIELTSIELTSInternational English Language Testing SystemThe 0–9 band test co-owned by the British Council, IDP, and Cambridge. Used for university entry, work, and migration.5.5–6.5TOEFL iBTTOEFL iBTTest of English as a Foreign Language, Internet-Based TestETS's academic English test, the standard route for US university admissions. Scored 0–120, with a 1–6 scale since 2026.1–6 scale: 4.0–4.572–94TOEICTOEICTest of English for International CommunicationETS's workplace English test, big in Japan and Korea. Listening & Reading scores 10–990 and tops out at C1.785–944
- Frequency
- Frequent
- Level
- B2 · Upper Intermediate
- Updated
- アルファベット
- 読み方の一覧 →
QR code
englishreference.com/q/fermentation
Traducciones: Kaikki.org (Wiktionary), CC BY-SA 4.0