adjective, sourer, sourest. 1. having an acid taste, resembling that of vinegar, lemon juice, etc.; tart. 2. rendered acid or affected by fermentation; fermented. 3. producing the one of the four basic taste sensations that is not bitter, salt, or sweet. 4. characteristic of something fermented: a sour smell.
General anesthetics normally are used to produce loss of consciousness before and during surgery. However, for obstetrics (labor and delivery) or certain minor procedures, an anesthetic may be given in small amounts to relieve anxiety or pain without causing unconsciousness.
General anesthesia is, essentially, a medically induced coma, not sleep. Drugs render a patient unresponsive and unconscious. General anesthetics are normally administered intravenously (IV) or inhaled. Under general anesthesia, the patient is unable to feel pain and may also have amnesia. The drugs will be administered by an anesthesiologist, a specially trained doctor who will also monitor a patient's vital signs and rate of breathing during the procedure.