cayenne

noun

cay·​enne (ˌ)kī-ˈen How to pronounce cayenne (audio)
(ˌ)kā-;
ˈkī-ˌen
ˈkā-

Examples of cayenne in a Sentence

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.
Add the brown sugar, chili sauce, cocoa powder, hot pepper, cumin, coriander, cayenne, salt and kidney beans. The Know, Denver Post, 24 Jan. 2026 It’s known that mice dislike strong scents like cinnamon, cloves, cayenne, peppermint, lavender, garlic, and vinegar, so why wouldn’t dryer sheets have a similar effect? Karen Brewer Grossman, Southern Living, 21 Jan. 2026 For a spicier hot chocolate, try a small pinch of cayenne. Carrie Madormo, Verywell Health, 16 Jan. 2026 Add a pinch of cayenne, cumin, and a squeeze of lemon juice for a zesty, savory twist that gives your morning a flavorful kick. Lauren O'Connor, Health, 7 Jan. 2026 See All Example Sentences for cayenne

Word History

First Known Use

1773, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of cayenne was in 1773

Browse Nearby Words

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Cite this Entry

“Cayenne.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/cayenne. Accessed 29 Jan. 2026.

Kids Definition

cayenne

noun
cay·​enne ˌkī-ˌen- How to pronounce cayenne (audio)
ˌkā-
: the ground dried fruits and seeds of hot peppers used to add flavor to food

called also cayenne pepper

Geographical Definition

Cayenne

geographical name

Cay·​enne kī-ˈen How to pronounce Cayenne (audio)
kā-
city, port on an estuary on the Atlantic coast, and capital of French Guiana population 37,097

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