astringent
UK: əˈstrɪndʒənt | US: əˈstrɪndʒənt
adj. causing contraction of body tissues; harsh or severe in manner
n. a substance that tightens tissues or dries secretions
Derived from Latin astringere ("to bind fast"), combining ad- (to) + stringere (to bind). The root stringere also gives rise to words like "strict" and "constrict." Originally used in medicine to describe substances that contract tissues (e.g., alum), the term later extended metaphorically to describe harsh or severe qualities. The morpheme -ent marks it as an adjective, preserving the Latin participial form.
The astringent taste of unripe persimmons comes from tannins.
She applied an astringent to reduce skin oiliness.
His astringent criticism left no room for debate.
Witch hazel acts as a natural astringent for minor cuts.
The judge’s astringent tone silenced the courtroom.