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

The finish is smooth and sweet, with lingering notes of orange zest, wood spices, and a touch of black pepper. —Joseph V Micallef, Forbes, 8 Jan. 2025

Mix equal parts cinnamon and cloves for ground allspice, then add a pinch of finely ground black pepper to replicate its complexity. —Alexandra Emanuelli, Southern Living, 23 Dec. 2024

While there are many variations on this drink, some popular ones include spiced with cinnamon, cloves and black pepper or doctored with a shot of espresso. —Alexandra Emanuelli, Southern Living, 23 Dec. 2024

Mixed with those are notes of caramel, tobacco, caramelized brown sugar, and subtle but noticeable layers of baking spice and black pepper. —Jonah Flicker, Robb Report, 22 Dec. 2024

Word History

First Known Use

before the 12th century, in the meaning defined above

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