bitter principle

American  

noun

Chemistry.

1. any of several hundred natural compounds, usually of vegetable origin, having a bitter taste, and not admitting of any chemical classification.

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bitter principle British  

noun

1. any of various bitter-tasting substances, such as aloin, usually extracted from plants

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Etymology

Origin of bitter principle

First recorded in 1930–35

Example Sentences

See Examples For:

bitter principle

The chemical constituents of Succory and Chicory are—in addition to those ordinarily appertaining to vegetables—inulin, and a special bitter principle not named.

From Herbal Simples Approved for Modern Uses of Cure by Fernie, William Thomas

May not something similar exist in the moral world? and even in the very healthiest mixture, may not some "bitter principle" be found to lurk?

From Confessions Of Con Cregan An Irish Gil Blas by Lever, Charles James

A product, used as a substitute for or an adulterant of coffee, containing a bitter principle, and made from the root of the endive and other similar plants.

From The Wonder Island Boys: Exploring the Island by Finlay, Roger Thompson

Turnips contain a large quantity of matter capable of affording nourishment to the body, but they yield little or none of the bitter principle.

From A Treatise on Sheep: The Best Means for their Improvement, General Management, and the Treatment of their Diseases. by Blacklock, Ambrose

The root-bark of E. atropurpureus is the source of euonymin, a bitter principle with a powerful stimulating effect on the liver.

From The New Gresham Encyclopedia Volume 4, Part 3: Estremoz to Felspar by Various