peppercorn

noun

pep·​per·​corn ˈpe-pər-ˌkȯrn How to pronounce peppercorn (audio)
plural peppercorns
: the small round fruit of the black pepper that is typically dried and ground as a spice

Examples of peppercorn 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.
In a small pot, bring ½ cup of water to a boil, add the Sichuan peppercorns and star anise, then remove from the heat. Jen Lin-Liu, Saveur, 11 Mar. 2026 Add cloves, bay leaves, garlic and peppercorns to the pot. Tribune Content Agency, Baltimore Sun, 4 Mar. 2026 The bones are then added to a pot with fresh thyme and black peppercorns, covered with cold water, and simmered on as low heat overnight. Heather Riske, Better Homes & Gardens, 21 Feb. 2026 During one visit, a smattering of green peppercorns in the burger‘s condiments evoked a playful take on steak au poivre. Jenn Harris, Los Angeles Times, 19 Feb. 2026 See All Example Sentences for peppercorn

Word History

First Known Use

before the 12th century, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of peppercorn was before the 12th century

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Cite this Entry

“Peppercorn.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/peppercorn. Accessed 16 Mar. 2026.

Kids Definition

peppercorn

noun
pep·​per·​corn ˈpep-ər-ˌkȯ(ə)rn How to pronounce peppercorn (audio)
: a dried berry of the black pepper
Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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