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

In a small bowl, combine the paprikas, cumin, salt, black pepper and cayenne and stir to blend. —Lynda Balslev, Mercury News, 9 June 2026

Look for notes of cinnamon, vanilla custard, crème brûlée, bananas foster, grape jelly, black pepper, and dark chocolate. —Jonah Flicker, Robb Report, 9 June 2026

Arrange the onion, cheese, tomatoes, lettuce, and pickles on separate plates, and season the tomatoes with sea salt and black pepper. —Kelly McCarthy, ABC News, 9 June 2026

Add the mayonnaise, sour cream, milk, lemon juice, red wine vinegar, ranch seasoning, and black pepper to a large bowl; whisk together until smooth. —Erin Merhar, Southern Living, 7 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