Definition of ferment

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< Fermat's last theorem

fermentation >

fer·ment    (fûrmnt) KEY  

NOUN:

1. Something, such as a yeast, bacterium, mold, or enzyme, that causes fermentation.
2. Fermentation.
3. 1. A state of agitation or of turbulent change or development.
   2. An agent that precipitates or is capable of precipitating such a state; a catalyst.

VERB:
fer·ment·ed , fer·ment·ing , fer·ments (fr-mnt)
VERB:
tr.

1. To produce by or as if by fermentation.
2. To cause to undergo fermentation.
3. To make turbulent; excite or agitate.

VERB:
intr.

1. To undergo fermentation.
2. To be in an excited or agitated state; seethe.

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ETYMOLOGY:
Middle English, from Old French, from Latin fermentum; see bhreu- in Indo-European roots

OTHER FORMS:
fer·menta·bili·ty (Noun), fer·menta·ble (Adjective)

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