n. 1.a state of agitation or turbulent change or development 2.a substance capable of bringing about fermentation 3.a process in which an agent causes an organic substance to break down into simpler substances 4.a chemical phenomenon in which an organic molecule splits into simpler substances ferment v. 1.be in an agitated or excited state 2.work up into agitation or excitement 3.cause to undergo fermentation 4.go sour or spoil
