Main Entry: ¹spice

Pronunciation: \ˈspīs\

Function: noun

Etymology: Middle English, from Anglo-French espece, espis, from Late Latin species product, wares, drugs, spices, from Latin, appearance, species — more at species

Date: 13th century

1 : any of various aromatic vegetable products (as pepper or nutmeg) used to season or flavor foods
2 a archaic : a small portion, quantity, or admixture : dash b : something that gives zest or relish <variety's the very spice of life — William Cowper>
3 : a pungent or fragrant odor : perfume

— spice·less \-ləs\ adjective