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.
Some also stimulate hair follicles with ingredients such as caffeine and cayenne. Ariel Wodarcyk, Glamour, 29 May 2026 Holistic Practices With Real Physiological Basis Warming spices like ginger, turmeric, cayenne contain compounds that promote vasodilation and improve microcirculation. Allison Palmer, Miami Herald, 28 May 2026 The sauce gets its pep and sweetness from ketchup, molasses, mustard, and a dash of cayenne. Lizzy Briskin, Better Homes & Gardens, 24 May 2026 Fittingly, the dish itself is a blend of cultures, combining French mirepoix, West African rice traditions, German sausage-making, and Native American spices like cayenne into one comforting meal. Symiah Dorsey, Southern Living, 16 May 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

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Cite this Entry

“Cayenne.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/cayenne. Accessed 2 Jun. 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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