tartareous UK /tɑːˈtɛəɹi.əs/US /tɑɹˈtɛɹi.əs/ adjective3 •Consisting of tartar; of the nature of tartar •Having a rough, crumbly surface.Many lichens are tartareous. •Of or pertaining to Tartarus; hellish. formsmore tartareous · most tartareous