paprika

noun

pa·​pri·​ka pə-ˈprē-kə How to pronounce paprika (audio)
pa-
: a usually mild red seasoning consisting of the dried finely ground pods of various sweet peppers
also : a sweet pepper used for making paprika

Examples of paprika in a Sentence

tomato sauce made with garlic, paprika, and pepper
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
The mild flavor of the potatoes acts as the perfect canvas to display the smoky chipotles and paprika, sweet maple syrup, tangy lime juice, and salty tamari. Karla Walsh, Better Homes & Gardens, 9 Dec. 2025 In another pan, prepare a sauté of garlic, paprika, and flour to add to the chickpeas. CBS News, 21 Nov. 2025 Dry, unheated paprika does not taste delicious. Josh Miller, Southern Living, 21 Nov. 2025 In a large bowl, whisk together melted butter, evaporated milk, eggs, paprika, salt and white pepper. Kathryn Gregory, Louisville Courier Journal, 10 Nov. 2025 See All Example Sentences for paprika

Word History

Etymology

Hungarian, from Serbian & Croatian, from papar ground pepper, ultimately from Latin piper — more at pepper

First Known Use

1830, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of paprika was in 1830

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Paprika.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/paprika. Accessed 13 Dec. 2025.

Kids Definition

paprika

noun
pa·​pri·​ka pə-ˈprē-kə How to pronounce paprika (audio)
pa-
: a mild red spice consisting of the dried finely ground fruit of various cultivated sweet peppers

More from Merriam-Webster on paprika

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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