peppery

adjective

pep·​pery ˈpe-p(ə-)rē 

1

: of, relating to, or having the qualities of pepper : hot, pungent

a peppery taste

2

: having a hot temper : touchy

a peppery boss

3

: fiery, stinging

a peppery satire

pepperiness

ˈpe-p(ə-)rē-nəs 

noun

Synonyms of peppery

• fiery
• spirited
• brisk
• passionate
• spunky

Examples of peppery in a Sentence

She's a peppery, outspoken woman.

the author of several peppery diatribes on religious intolerance

Recent Examples on the Web

While many modern expressions lean heavily into fruit, this wine embraces the peppery character that helped put Cabernet Franc on the map in the first place. —Emily Cappiello, Forbes.com, 18 June 2026

Its unique balance of sweetness and peppery tang quickly made Stubbs a household name across the South. —Catherine Jessee, Southern Living, 4 June 2026

Vinegary or peppery sauces pair well with malty beers, like an Oktoberfest or Marzen beer. —Jay R. Brooks, Mercury News, 1 June 2026

The peppery flavor of this fast-growing green actually benefits from the shade, keeping it from getting too spicy. —Rita Pelczar, Better Homes & Gardens, 26 May 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1610, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Kids Definition

peppery

adjective

pep·​pery ˈpep-(ə-)rē 

1

: of, relating to, or having the qualities of pepper : hot

2

: having a hot temper

3

: fiery sense 3a