as·trin·gent [? strínj?nt] noun (plural as·trin·gents) pore-closing substance: a substance that draws tissue together adjective sharp and acidic in tone: speaking or writing in a manner that is critical and hurtful in tone and content [Mid-16th century. < Latin astringent-, present participle of astringere "bind to" < stringere "bind"] -as·trin·gen·cy, noun -as·trin·gent·ly, adverb