jalapeño

noun

ja·​la·​pe·​ño ˌhä-lə-ˈpā-(ˌ)nyō 

ˌha-, 

-ˈpā-(ˌ)nō, 

-ˈpē-(ˌ)nō 

variants or less commonly jalapeno

plural jalapeños also jalapenos

: a small plump dark green chili pepper of Mexico and the southern U.S.

called also jalapeño pepper

Examples of jalapeño in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Garnish with cilantro and jalapeno (if using). —Cathy Thomas, Oc Register, 23 Feb. 2026

Carolina-style whole hog barbecue is placed atop a tostada, topped with miso mustard aioli and pickled jalapeno. —Heidi Finley, Charlotte Observer, 20 Feb. 2026

Rapisura-Pardo stuffs a jalapeno half with a creamy crawfish filling, wraps it in a spring roll wrapper and fries until golden. —Sean Timberlake, Sacbee.com, 20 Feb. 2026

In a large bowl, combine the black beans, black-eyed peas, corn, tomatoes, bell pepper, onion and jalapeno pepper. —Robin Miller, AZCentral.com, 4 Feb. 2026

Pre-order options like like their bine-in wings, boneless chix tenders, jalapeno poppers, and plenty more to choose from. —Blaine Callahan, Hartford Courant, 3 Feb. 2026

The jalapeno bacon and spiked ketchup add a kick of spice. —Evan Grant, Dallas Morning News, 20 Jan. 2026

These easy appetizers combine two party favorites—jalapeno poppers and buffalo chicken wings. —Ginger Crichton, Midwest Living, 5 Jan. 2026

The brand’s authentic tamales were filled with pork, chicken or cheese with jalapeno. —Michael Deeds january 1, Idaho Statesman, 1 Jan. 2026

Word History

Etymology

Mexican Spanish, from jalapeño, adjective, of Jalapa

First Known Use

1931, in the meaning defined above