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 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, 6 Feb. 2026 That one features a chicken filet with lettuce, tomato, avocado mash, bacon and cayenne ranch. Tanasia Kenney, Charlotte Observer, 5 Feb. 2026 Add a little cinnamon or cayenne to set them apart from other brownies. Kimberly Holland, Southern Living, 4 Feb. 2026 It is topped with avocado mash, bacon and cayenne ranch. Sabrina Weiss, PEOPLE, 4 Feb. 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 9 Feb. 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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