1. a hard yellowish deposit that forms on teeth
Usage: dental/medical
2. a reddish acidic compound that forms during wine fermentation
Usage: chemistry
3. a person who is fierce, violent, or difficult to deal with
Usage: informal

Examples

• The dentist removed tartar buildup from my teeth during the cleaning.
• Regular brushing helps prevent tartar formation.
• The recipe calls for cream of tartar to stabilize the egg whites.
• Tartar deposits form naturally in wine barrels.
• She’s a real tartar when she’s angry.
• The new boss turned out to be quite a tartar.
• Use tartar control toothpaste to reduce plaque buildup.