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

During the argument, a person discharged pepper spray, which led to a fight. — Kansas City Star, 9 Oct. 2026

Detainees described at least one other incident in which pepper spray was deployed against them by officers, after asking officers to not remove a jug of clean water. — Claire Healy, Miami Herald, 8 Oct. 2026

To break up those fights or protests mounted by detainees, Geo guards used pepper spray or brandished a gun that fired rubber or plastic bullets, Daniel and others said. — Seth Klamann, Denver Post, 27 Sep. 2026

Following his arrest, authorities found a semiautomatic rifle, five rifle magazines, about 190 rounds of ammunition, pepper spray, an entrenchment tool, and about 30 knives, according to the affidavit. — Thao Nguyen, USA Today, 16 Sep. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1979, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for pepper spray

• aaa
• alleyway
• alumnae
• anime
• anyway
• arete
• attache
• axillae
• baa
• beaujolais
• bouvier
• breakaway