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 flour, cornstarch, black pepper, salt, paprika, garlic powder, and crushed red pepper in a separate shallow bowl. —Gretchen McKay, Twin Cities, 26 Mar. 2026

There are notes of chocolate-cherry, grape soda, yellow cake with vanilla frosting, apple, brown sugar, and a bit of black pepper and cinnamon on the palate. —Jonah Flicker, Robb Report, 22 Mar. 2026

Toss, gradually adding 1½ cups pasta cooking liquid, until combined; season with more salt and black pepper. —Rebecca Firkser, Bon Appetit Magazine, 22 Mar. 2026

Salt and black pepper are used in the seasoning blend for the pork chops and to season the gravy before serving. —Robin Miller, AZCentral.com, 19 Mar. 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