fermentation
- 01 B2 Upper Intermediate
a process where yeast or bacteria break down sugar into alcohol or acid.
the anaerobic breakdown of organic substances by microorganisms, such as the conversion of sugars into ethanol or lactic acid.
Simple“The fermentation of the grapes takes several weeks before the wine is ready.”
In context“Industrial fermentation requires precise temperature control to ensure that the yeast cultures remain active throughout the conversion process.”
UsageOften used as an uncountable noun when discussing the general process.
Teacher's tipWhile technical, this is a high-frequency word for learners interested in cooking, brewing, or biology.
Synonymschemical changezymosis - 02 C2 Proficiency
a state of social or political excitement and change.
a state of agitation, unrest, or intense activity, often preceding significant social or political change.
Simple“The country was in a state of political fermentation before the revolution.”
In context“The intellectual fermentation of the late eighteenth century provided the necessary groundwork for the radical shifts in governance that followed.”
UsageUsually used in the singular or as an uncountable noun.
Teacher's tipThis sense is metaphorical; it compares the 'bubbling' of a chemical reaction to the 'bubbling' of social unrest.
“In industrial production, bacteria are grown inside large fermentation tanks and given carbon-rich materials such as sugars, starch, or plant oils.”
From Middle English fermentacioun, from Latin fermentātiō, fermentātiōnem. By surface analysis, ferment + -ation.
Etymology adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.