pepper spray

noun

: a temporarily disabling aerosol that is composed partly of capsicum oleoresin and causes irritation and blinding of the eyes and inflammation of the nose, throat, and skin

Examples of pepper spray in a Sentence

The police used pepper spray to bring the suspect under control.
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.
Retes also alleged that he was not permitted to shower or change clothes despite being exposed to tear gas and pepper spray. Billal Rahman, MSNBC Newsweek, 17 July 2025 The officer then deployed pepper spray into the scrum, prompting protesters to scatter. Maryam Ahmed, Austin American Statesman, 2 July 2025 This comes after Turner's cell phone video showed Smith attacking Turner with pepper spray in the car. Gabrielle Rockson, People.com, 27 June 2025 Per the outlet, Turner refused to leave the ride until it was refunded, before Smith lashed out with pepper spray. Demicia Inman, VIBE.com, 26 June 2025 See All Example Sentences for pepper spray

Word History

First Known Use

1979, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of pepper spray was in 1979

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Cite this Entry

“Pepper spray.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/pepper%20spray. Accessed 21 Aug. 2025.

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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