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
• spirited
• brisk
• 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

Its unique balance of sweetness and peppery tang quickly made Stubbs a household name across the South. —Catherine Jessee, Southern Living, 4 June 2026

Vinegary or peppery sauces pair well with malty beers, like an Oktoberfest or Marzen beer. —Jay R. Brooks, Mercury News, 1 June 2026

The finish is long, warming, and slightly peppery, with lingering notes of cinnamon and caramel. —Joseph V Micallef, Forbes.com, 31 May 2026

The peppery flavor of this fast-growing green actually benefits from the shade, keeping it from getting too spicy. —Rita Pelczar, Better Homes & Gardens, 26 May 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