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

Stir together cilantro, parsley, shallot, garlic, Fresno pepper, vinegar, olive oil, lemon juice, oregano, salt, and black pepper in a small bowl. — Josh Miller, Southern Living, 26 Sep. 2026

Combine brown sugar, salt, and black pepper in a small bowl, then sprinkle the mixture evenly over the potatoes. — Maggie Meyer Glisan, Better Homes & Gardens, 26 Sep. 2026

Use it in salads by marinating in soy sauce, lime juice, and black pepper, cutting it into thin strips, and sauteing with a little coconut oil. — Alessandra Signorelli, Vogue, 25 Sep. 2026

Neoli, jasmine, and bergamot keep things bright, while black pepper, cardamom, and cinnamon add just enough spice. — Amanda Le, InStyle, 24 Sep. 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