peppercorn

noun

pep·​per·​corn ˈpe-pər-ˌkȯrn How to pronounce peppercorn (audio)
plural peppercorns
: the small round fruit of the black pepper that is typically dried and ground as a spice

Examples of peppercorn in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
The exact mix can vary, but the traditional version typically includes star anise, cloves, cinnamon, Sichuan peppercorns, and fennel seeds, though some variations might include other spices like ginger or cardamom. Jess Thomson, Newsweek, 17 Jan. 2025 The broths are made fresh daily using chicken broth, ground peppercorns and vegetables, Yu said. Reia Li, The Arizona Republic, 31 Dec. 2024 A touch of pink peppercorns enhances the sweet and delicate character of trout roe, producing a fusion of flavors that will leave your palate amazed. Joseph V Micallef, Forbes, 5 Sep. 2024 People working on barges on the Minjiang River cooked ingredients over an open fire on the riverbank, throwing in Sichuan’s iconic peppercorns to season the soup. Reia Li, The Arizona Republic, 31 Dec. 2024 See all Example Sentences for peppercorn 

Word History

First Known Use

before the 12th century, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of peppercorn was before the 12th century

Dictionary Entries Near peppercorn

Cite this Entry

“Peppercorn.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/peppercorn. Accessed 27 Jan. 2025.

Kids Definition

peppercorn

noun
pep·​per·​corn ˈpep-ər-ˌkȯ(ə)rn How to pronounce peppercorn (audio)
: a dried berry of the black pepper
Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!