Pronunciation: [ɐsˈɪdjʊlˌe͡ɪt] (IPA) 
The word "acidulate" (əˈsɪd.jʊ.leɪt) refers to the process of making something slightly acidic. The pronunciation of this word can be broken down into its phonetic transcription: schwa (ə) - s (s) - ih (ɪ) - d (d) - j (ʒ) - yu (ʊ) - l (l) - ey (eɪ) - t (t). The spelling of this word can be tricky as the "cid" portion may lead one to think it should be spelled "acidulate", but it is actually spelled with an "i" as in "acidic".
The verb "acidulate" refers to the action of making something acidic or sour by adding acid or an acidic substance. It involves the process of imparting an acidic taste or quality to a certain substance or solution.
When used in cooking or food preparation, acidulating refers to the act of adding acid, such as vinegar or citrus juice, to a dish or ingredient in order to enhance its flavor profile or achieve a desired level of acidity. This process is commonly employed in various culinary creations, such as marinades, dressings, and sauces, to provide a tangy or sour taste that balances or complements other flavors.
In scientific literature, acidulation is frequently mentioned in the context of chemical reactions or industrial processes. It often involves the addition of an acid or acidic compound to adjust the acidity of a solution or to facilitate a specific chemical reaction. Acidulating agents can be used to regulate the pH level of various substances, control the stability of solutions, or catalyze specific reactions.
The term "acidulate" can also be used metaphorically to describe the action of adding a hint of sharpness or criticism to a conversation, argument, or written text. In this sense, it suggests the act of introducing a slightly negative or critical element that alters the overall tone or character of a discussion or written piece.
To render more or less acid or sour.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
To make slightly sour; to make moderately acid.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
The word acidulate comes from the Latin word acidus, meaning sour or acid, which evolved into the Late Latin term acidulare, meaning to make sour. In turn, it derived from the noun acidulum, meaning something sour. This Latin root was later borrowed into various Romance languages, including French (aciduler) and Italian (acidulare). The word acidulate made its way into English in the 17th century, maintaining its original meaning of to make sour or to add acidity.
