fermentation

Meanings

1. 1
   noun

   a metabolic process in which microorganisms or enzymes convert organic substances, often sugars, without oxygen

   During fermentation, yeast converts sugar into alcohol and carbon dioxide.

2. 2
   noun

   the controlled use of that process to make foods, drinks, chemicals, or fuels

   The cheese develops its flavor through careful fermentation.

3. 3
   noun

   a state of energetic agitation, excitement, or social change

   The decade was a period of political fermentation and new ideas.

From Middle English fermentacioun and Latin fermentatio, from fermentare ("to ferment") and fermentum ("leaven"). Its figurative sense compares social or intellectual agitation to an active, bubbling ferment.

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