pumpernickel

noun

pum·​per·​nick·​el ˈpəm-pər-ˌni-kəl How to pronounce pumpernickel (audio)
: a dark coarse sourdough bread made of unbolted rye flour

Examples of pumpernickel 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.
Flavors are balanced with perky red fruit, pumpernickel, red cherry tart and Friday afternoon easiness. Tom Mullen, Forbes, 2 Mar. 2025 This two-time silver medalist at the Great American Beer Festival (2017 and 2023) smacks of cocoa, dark plums and pumpernickel. Peter Rowe, San Diego Union-Tribune, 21 Feb. 2025 This is less troubling than the green, because a black bagel is only a few shades removed from pumpernickel, whereas a green bagel is a few shades removed from the ooze that gives adolescent turtles sentience. Rebecca Alter, Vulture, 14 June 2024 Healthier options include whole wheat, sourdough, spelt, rye, and pumpernickel. Aviv Joshua, Verywell Health, 7 Oct. 2024 See All Example Sentences for pumpernickel

Word History

Etymology

German, from pumpern to break wind + Nickel goblin; from its reputed indigestibility

First Known Use

1738, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of pumpernickel was in 1738

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Pumpernickel.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/pumpernickel. Accessed 24 Mar. 2025.

Kids Definition

pumpernickel

noun
pum·​per·​nick·​el ˈpəm-pər-ˌnik-əl How to pronounce pumpernickel (audio)
: a dark coarse somewhat sour rye bread

More from Merriam-Webster on pumpernickel

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