Bitterish

/ˈbɪtɚɪʃ/ adjective

Definition

Somewhat bitter; having a slight or mild bitter taste or quality.

Etymology

From bitter (Old English biter, meaning 'having a sharp taste') + -ish (a suffix meaning 'somewhat' or 'rather'). This diminutive adjective allows for describing tastes or moods that aren't fully bitter but lean in that direction.

Kelly Says

Dark chocolate is often bitterish—not quite bitter enough to pucker your mouth, but with enough complexity to be interesting. The -ish ending is one of English's best features for describing the in-between shades of things.

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