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

This rum spent a quarter century aging in American oak ex-bourbon barrels, and is the drier of the two with notes of black pepper, tannic oak, butterscotch, orange, dark roast espresso, crème brûlée, licorice, and menthol. — Jonah Flicker, Robb Report, 24 June 2026

In a small bowl, combine the garlic powder, 1/4 teaspoon of the salt and the black pepper. — The Washington Post, San Diego Union-Tribune, 24 June 2026

What sets Zaxbys signature ranch apart is its proprietary blend of buttermilk, black pepper, herbs, and spices. — Molly Burford, Southern Living, 22 June 2026

Season with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper and mix until just combined. — Sheela Prakash, Bon Appetit Magazine, 19 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