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
These examples are automatically compiled from online sources to illustrate current usage. Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.
Stir together salt, black pepper, onion powder, and 1 teaspoon of the sugar in a small bowl. Nicole Hopper, Southern Living, 4 Nov. 2024 Sprinkle with a mixture of one-half teaspoon of salt, one-half teaspoon of garlic powder, and one-fourth teaspoon of ground black pepper. Jillian Kubala, Health, 4 Nov. 2024 For example, ginger, cardamom and black pepper could offer digestive support by stimulating enzymes and reducing bloating. Gordon G. Chang, Newsweek, 1 Nov. 2024 Add the turmeric, salt, black pepper, and lemon juice and stir until well combined. Lisa Wong MacAbasco, Vogue, 31 Oct. 2024 See all Example Sentences for black pepper 

Word History

First Known Use

before the 12th century, in the meaning defined above

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

Dictionary Entries Near black pepper

Cite this Entry

“Black pepper.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/black%20pepper. Accessed 15 Nov. 2024.

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

More from Merriam-Webster on 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!