black pepper

noun

: a spice that consists of the dried fruit of an Indian vine (Piper nigrum) ground with the black husk still on

also : the vine that yields black pepper see peppercorn compare white pepper

Examples of black pepper in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, black pepper and garlic powder. —Bethany Thayer, Freep.com, 12 July 2025

Taking turmeric with black pepper extract may enhance the bioavailability of curcumin, meaning your body absorbs more of the nutrients.15 Garlic is also widely available in supplemental form, with many studies supporting the products' health claims. —Chelsea Rae Bourgeois, Health, 9 July 2025

Combine tomatoes, red onion, basil, serrano chile, vinegar, 3/4 cup olive oil, 2 teaspoons salt, and 1/2 teaspoon black pepper in a glass or ceramic 13- x 9-inch baking dish. —Josh Miller, Southern Living, 7 July 2025

The finish is long and flavorful, with lingering notes of vanilla and black pepper. —Joseph V Micallef, Forbes.com, 3 July 2025

Word History

First Known Use

before the 12th century, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for black pepper

• leper
• lepper
• stepper

Kids Definition

black pepper

noun

: a spice that is made by grinding the fruit of the East Indian pepper with the black husk still on

Medical Definition

black pepper

noun

: a condiment that consists of the fruit of an Indian plant of the genus Piper (P. nigrum) ground with the black husk still on