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.
Since protests began on May 22, there have been several clashes between some demonstrators and federal and state officers, including some where pepper spray and batons were used by officers. Armando Garcia, ABC News, 4 June 2026 Roske showed up to Kavanaugh’s home with a firearm, several magazines of ammunition, pepper spray, zip ties, a hammer, screwdrivers, a nail punch and a crowbar. Alexandra Bacallao, NBC news, 3 June 2026 They’re not allowed to carry weapons or pepper spray. Caitlin McGlade, Charlotte Observer, 2 June 2026 The officers ended up using pepper spray and a stun gun on two people before taking them into custody on suspicion of resisting arrest. Jeff McDonald, San Diego Union-Tribune, 30 May 2026 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

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Pepper spray.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/pepper%20spray. Accessed 5 Jun. 2026.

Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!

More from Merriam-Webster