How Do You Spell TARTER?

Pronunciation: [tˈɑːtə] (IPA)

The spelling of the word "tarter" may seem confusing, but it can be easily explained using IPA phonetic transcription. The word is pronounced as /tɑːrtər/, with the stress on the first syllable. The "t" at the beginning is pronounced with aspiration, meaning that there is a puff of air released. The "ar" sound in the middle is pronounced as a long "a", and the "-ter" ending is pronounced as "tər". So, when spelling the word, remember to include the "a" and the aspiration at the beginning, as well as the "tər" ending.

Meaning and Definition
Common Misspellings
Etymology
Similar spelling words
Basic Check Advanced Check

TARTER Meaning and Definition

  1. Tarter, also spelled "tartar," is a noun that can have multiple meanings depending on the context. One common definition refers to a hard, yellowish mineral deposit that can form on the teeth and is composed mainly of calcium phosphate. Dental tartar is typically caused by the calcification and buildup of dental plaque, which is a sticky film containing bacteria that can accumulate on the surface of teeth. When plaque is not adequately removed through regular brushing and flossing, it can harden into tartar, leading to potential oral health issues such as tooth decay, gum disease, and bad breath.

    Another definition of tarter is a spicy or acidic sauce typically made with vinegar, various herbs, and sometimes fruits. Tartar sauce is often served as a condiment with seafood dishes like fish and chips, or as a tangy complement to fried foods. This sauce's tangy and zesty flavor profile provides a pleasant contrast to the richness of the food it accompanies.

    In a figurative sense, tarter can also be used to describe a person who displays a sharp or biting manner, especially in their speech or behavior. This usage implies a certain level of sourness or caustic temperament, often marked by a tendency to criticize or make cutting remarks.

    Overall, tarter encompasses various definitions – from the dental mineral deposit to the flavorful sauce and the figurative description of a person's demeanor.

Common Misspellings for TARTER

Etymology of TARTER

The term "tarter" has multiple etymologies depending on its usage and context.

1. Tartar (dentistry): In dentistry, "tartar" refers to hardened plaque that forms on the teeth. The word "tartar" in this sense is derived from the Middle English word "tartre", which originated from Old French "tartre" and Late Latin "tartarum". It is ultimately rooted in Greek "tartaron", meaning "sediment" or "tartar".

2. Tarter (person): "Tarter" can also be used as an alternative spelling of "Tatar", referring to the Turkic-speaking peoples of Central Asia and Eastern Europe. This usage comes from the Old Russian "tatary", which is derived from the Mongolian word "tatar" meaning "wanderer" or "outcast".

Similar spelling words for TARTER