Having undergone fermentation, a chemical process where microorganisms break down sugars to produce acids, gases, or alcohol. Also means having experienced agitation or unrest.
From Latin fermentum meaning 'leaven, yeast,' related to fervere 'to boil.' The word entered English in the 14th century, maintaining both its literal brewing sense and metaphorical meaning of agitation or excitement.
Fermentation is one of humanity's oldest biotechnologies, accidentally discovered when our ancestors noticed that stored grains and fruits would transform into something even more wonderful. This 'controlled spoilage' gave us bread, wine, cheese, and countless other foods that define human cuisine.
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