Bitter
Bitter
Bitter (/ˈbɪtər/), from the Old English bitan meaning "to bite", is a basic taste sensation characterized by a sharp, pungent flavor. It is one of the five basic tastes, along with sweet, sour, salty, and umami.
Etymology
The term "bitter" comes from the Old English bitan, which means "to bite". This is likely due to the sharp, biting sensation often associated with bitter tastes.
Sensation
Bitterness is perceived by the taste receptors located on the tongue. These receptors, known as taste buds, send signals to the brain when they detect the presence of bitter substances. The brain then interprets these signals as the sensation of bitterness.
Role in Human Health
Bitter substances often serve as a warning sign of potential toxins in food. Many poisonous plants and animals have a bitter taste, which can deter consumption. However, not all bitter substances are harmful. Some, like certain vegetables and herbs, are beneficial to health.
Related Terms
- Taste: The sensation produced when a substance in the mouth reacts chemically with taste receptor cells located on taste buds.
- Taste receptor: A type of receptor which facilitates the sensation of taste. They are located around the small structures known as taste buds.
- Taste bud: A small structure on the tongue that contains taste receptor cells.
- Umami: One of the five basic tastes, umami is a savory taste that is often described as meaty.
- Sweetness: One of the five basic tastes, sweetness is usually regarded as a pleasurable sensation and is produced by the presence of sugars and a few other substances.
- Sourness: One of the five basic tastes, sourness is the taste that corresponds to the basic taste sensation of acidity.
- Saltiness: One of the five basic tastes, saltiness is a taste produced primarily by the presence of sodium ions.
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Bitter
- Wikipedia's article - Bitter
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