Dictionary definition · ferment
noun
- a state of agitation or turbulent change or development"the political ferment produced new leadership"
- a substance capable of bringing about fermentation
- a process in which an agent causes an organic substance to break down into simpler substances; especially, the anaerobic breakdown of sugar into alcohol
verb
- be in an agitated or excited state"The Middle East is fermenting"
- work up into agitation or excitement"This religion is fermenting Africa"
- cause to undergo fermentation"We ferment the grapes for a very long time to achieve high alcohol content"
- go sour or spoil"The milk has soured"
Source: Open English WordNet (CC BY 4.0).