Synonyms for

Sour

Adjective / ˈsaʊɜ: / / saʊr / Another word for sour — explore alternatives below. For syllable breakdowns and pronunciation, see this word on Syllablesworld.

Definition

having an acidic or sharp taste

Synonyms & similar words

false dour sweet glum tartness rancid acidulate acidify ferment work acetify dark off turn turned saturnine sullen glowering morose sourness moody acidity sweeten acidic tart bitter astringent acerbic sharp pungent vinegary acidulous tangy zesty briny salty sourish acidulated acrid harsh sour-tasting sourish tartish

Synonyms by register

Formal

acidic tart pungent acrid

Informal

vinegary tangy zesty

Literary

acerbic vinegary bitter

Antonyms

sweet pleasant mild agreeable savory delicious

Common collocations

  • sour cream
  • sour grapes
  • sour stomach
  • sour mood
  • sour note
  • sour taste
  • sour expression

Word family

noun sourness
adjective sour
adverb sourly

Usage note

Primarily used to describe a taste, but can also describe a negative mood or disposition. 'Sour grapes' is an idiom referring to pretending to dislike something because you cannot have it.

Compare "sour" with another word →

Example sentences

  1. The milk tasted sour.
  2. The orange juice was too sour.
  3. The pickle had a sour taste.
  4. The yogurt was sour.
  5. The candy was too sour for me.

Quotes

  • The sour apple tastes much sweeter when it's being shared.
  • When life gives you lemons, make lemonade. But if life gives you sour grapes, your only option is to eat them and smile.
  • Better a witty fool than a foolish wit.

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