(noun) a chemical phenomenon in which an organic molecule splits into simpler substances

(noun) a process in which an agent causes an organic substance to break down into simpler substances; especially, the anaerobic breakdown of sugar into alcohol

(noun) a state of agitation or turbulent change or development; "the political ferment produced a new leadership"; "social unrest"

(noun) a substance capable of bringing about fermentation

(verb) go sour or spoil; "The milk has soured"; "The wine worked"; "The cream has turned--we have to throw it out"

(verb) cause to undergo fermentation; "We ferment the grapes for a very long time to achieve high alcohol content"; "The vintner worked the wine in big oak vats"

(verb) work up into agitation or excitement; "Islam is fermenting Africa"

(verb) be in an agitated or excited state; "The Middle East is fermenting"; "Her mind ferments"

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