Definition of: taste

(tāst) v. tast·ed, tast·ing v.t.
1. To perceive the flavor of (something) by taking into the mouth or touching with the tongue.
2. To take a little of (food or drink); eat or drink a little of.
3. To test the quality of (a product) thus: His business is tasting tea.
4. Archaic To have a relish for; like.
5. Obs. To prove or try by or as by touch.
—v.i.
6. To take a small quantity into the mouth; take a taste: usually with of.
7. To have experience or enjoyment; be or become acquainted through experience: with of: to taste of great sorrow.
8. To have specified flavor when in the mouth: Sugar tastes sweet.
—noun
1. The sensation excited when a soluble substance comes into contact with any of the taste buds; also, the quality thus perceived; flavor.
2. Physiol. Any of the four fundamental sensations, salt, sweet, bitter, or sour, excited alone or in any combination by the sole action of the gustatory nerves.
3. A small quantity tasted, eaten or sipped; a sample: often used figuratively.
4. Special fondness and aptitude for a pursuit; bent; inclination: a taste for music.
5. The power or faculty of apprehending and appreciating the beautiful in nature, art, and literature; critical perception or discernment.
6. Style or form with respect to the rules of propriety or etiquette: She behaves in very poor taste.
7. Individual preference or liking: That tie suits my taste.
8. The act of tasting.
9. Obs. The act of examining or testing. See synonyms under RELISH, SAVOR. [<OF taster taste, try, feel, prob. ult. <L taxare touch, handle, appraise]
—tast′a·ble adjective