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

That note mingles with flavors of dark chocolate, caramel, roasted espresso, baking spice, black pepper, and molasses, and the whiskey’s inherent sweetness is nicely tempered by the spice from the high percentage of rye in the recipe. —Jonah Flicker, Robb Report, 29 June 2025

Transfer the shrimp to a plate and set aside. 4: Add the wine, 1 teaspoon salt and a few grinds of black pepper to the skillet, and bring to a simmer, scraping any browned bits from the pan. —The New York Times News Service Syndicate, San Diego Union-Tribune, 25 June 2025

Ladle evenly into 6 bowls, and serve with additional Parmesan cheese and 2 grinds each of black pepper. —Jasmine Smith, Southern Living, 24 June 2025

Make healthy swaps: Try replacing salt with other seasonings, like garlic, herbs, black pepper, vinegar, or lemon. —Cristina Mutchler, Verywell Health, 23 June 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