black pepper

noun

: a spice that consists of the dried berry of an Indian vine ground with the black husk still on

also : the plant (Piper nigrum) that yields black pepper

Examples of black pepper in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Season to taste with salt and black pepper; drizzle with olive oil. —Sheena Chihak, Better Homes & Gardens, 24 May 2024

Despite having spent so long in new oak, which can sometimes overwhelm a spirit, the palate is a spicy fruit bowl that is bursting with fresh red berries, orange, apple, vanilla, black pepper, and chocolate. —Jonah Flicker, Robb Report, 21 May 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