peppery

adjective

pep·​pery ˈpe-p(ə-)rē 

1

: of, relating to, or having the qualities of pepper : hot, pungent

a peppery taste

2

: having a hot temper : touchy

a peppery boss

3

: fiery, stinging

a peppery satire

pepperiness

ˈpe-p(ə-)rē-nəs 

noun

Synonyms of peppery

• fiery
• brisk
• spirited
• passionate
• spunky

Examples of peppery in a Sentence

She's a peppery, outspoken woman.

the author of several peppery diatribes on religious intolerance

Recent Examples on the Web

My current favorite combo is sausage and broccoli rabe; the fat from the sausage sizzles the pasta while the broccoli rabe adds a peppery bite. — Nina Moskowitz, Bon Appetit Magazine, 17 Sep. 2026

Cottin remains a drily smart, likably peppery lead, perfectly countering the spiraling scattiness of the wonderful Calamy. — Guy Lodge, Variety, 30 Aug. 2026

The petals are edible and known for their peppery flavor, with overtones of cucumber and cloves, and are suitable for garnishes and salads. — Joshua Siskin, Oc Register, 28 Aug. 2026

The chicken hits with a peppery snap, citrusy and resinous with a trace of fenugreek lurking in the background. — Jenn Harris, Los Angeles Times, 27 Aug. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1610, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Kids Definition

peppery

adjective

pep·​pery ˈpep-(ə-)rē 

1

: of, relating to, or having the qualities of pepper : hot

2

: having a hot temper

3

: fiery sense 3a