pepperoni

noun

pep·​per·​o·​ni ˌpe-pə-ˈrō-nē How to pronounce pepperoni (audio)
Synonyms of pepperoninext
: a highly seasoned beef and pork sausage

Examples of pepperoni 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.
Acquario Pizza’s introductory menu offers a choice of 10 pizzas with toppings such as soppressata, prosciutto cotto, Calabrian chili peppers and cup-and-char pepperoni. Bud Kennedy, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 3 Mar. 2026 Skip sausage and pepperoni, and go for a full-on celebration of spring. Karla Walsh, Better Homes & Gardens, 27 Feb. 2026 The 18-inch thin and foldable pies include a Margherita pizza, a 'za called The Stockyard with sausage and mushrooms, and one called The Heatwave topped with Calabrian chili oil, pepperoni and jalapeno. Amanda Hancock, Louisville Courier Journal, 27 Feb. 2026 Enter this recipe that is an old-school favorite featuring zesty Italian dressing, pepperoni, olives, and pasta. Kaitlyn Yarborough, Southern Living, 21 Feb. 2026 See All Example Sentences for pepperoni

Word History

Etymology

Italian peperoni cayenne peppers, plural of peperone, augmentative of pepe pepper, from Latin piper — more at pepper

First Known Use

1888, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of pepperoni was in 1888

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Pepperoni.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/pepperoni. Accessed 10 Mar. 2026.

Kids Definition

pepperoni

noun
pep·​per·​o·​ni ˌpep-ə-ˈrō-nē How to pronounce pepperoni (audio)
: a highly seasoned beef and pork sausage

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