maceration

mac-er-a-tion · noun

imported

Definitions

noun

  1. 1.

    The process of softening or breaking down a substance by soaking it in liquid.

  2. 2.

    The softening and wearing away of skin due to prolonged exposure to moisture.

  3. 3.

    In winemaking, the contact between grape skins and juice to extract color, tannins, and flavor.

Forms

plural: macerations

Related words

Antonyms: drying, hardening
See also: infusion, soak, steep
Synonyms: soaking, softening, steeping

Etymology

From Latin maceratio, from macerare meaning "to soften, steep."