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.
When only local anesthesia is used, you will be awake during the nerve block (giving the shot of anesthetic medicine and numbing up the area) and during the surgery. Sometimes taking a mild sedative pill the morning of surgery will help some of the anxiety associated with the shot and the surgery.