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

Then in a third and final bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sour cream, salt, and black pepper. — Karla Walsh, Better Homes & Gardens, 3 July 2026

Freshly ground black pepper To make the lemon-dill mayo, stir together the mayonnaise, lemon juice, lemon zest, garlic and dill. — Laura McLively, Mercury News, 3 July 2026

Pigs are cooked whole over wood, broken down, and then dressed with a mixture of cider vinegar, salt, black pepper, and crushed red pepper. — Amethyst Ganaway, Bon Appetit Magazine, 1 July 2026

Next was the Robert Mondavi 2021 The Estates Oakville Cabernet Sauvignon, which was more fruit-forward, with red plum, cassis, and blueberry notes, along with lovely spice, black pepper, and tobacco on the palate. — Liz Thach, Forbes.com, 30 June 2026

Word History

First Known Use

before the 12th century, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for black pepper

• leper
• lepper
• stepper

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