black pepper

noun

: a spice that consists of the dried fruit of an Indian vine (Piper nigrum) ground with the black husk still on

also : the vine that yields black pepper see peppercorn compare white pepper

Examples of black pepper in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

The finish is long, sweet, and creamy with lingering notes of black pepper, caramel, and cooked grain. —Joseph V Micallef, Forbes.com, 14 Aug. 2025

Whisk together mayonnaise, buttermilk, ranch seasoning, garlic powder, and 1/2 teaspoon of the black pepper in a large bowl until smooth. —Kimberly Holland, Southern Living, 14 Aug. 2025

Taste, and season with more salt and black pepper, as needed. —The Washington Post, San Diego Union-Tribune, 13 Aug. 2025

Some turmeric supplements contain curcumin with piperine (from black pepper), which can boost absorption up to 20-fold.2 Curcumin is widely known for its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects. —Patricia Weiser, Verywell Health, 6 Aug. 2025

Word History

First Known Use

before the 12th century, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for black pepper

• leper
• lepper
• stepper

Kids Definition

black pepper

noun

: a spice that is made by grinding the fruit of the East Indian pepper with the black husk still on

Medical Definition

black pepper

noun

: a condiment that consists of the fruit of an Indian plant of the genus Piper (P. nigrum) ground with the black husk still on