Pepper

Definition

Pepper is a noun and a verb. As a noun, it refers to a pungent spice obtained from dried and ground peppercorns (Piper nigrum), as well as various plants producing peppers. As a verb, it means to sprinkle or season with pepper, or to cover or scatter something in large quantities.

Parts of Speech

• Noun
• Verb

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˈpɛp.ɚ/
• Respelling: PEP-er

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˈpɛp.ə/
• Respelling: PEP-uh

Etymology

The word "pepper" originates from Old English "pipor," derived from Latin "piper," meaning "pepper" or "spice," which in turn comes from Greek "piperi." The word ultimately traces back to Sanskrit "pippalī," referring to long pepper, a closely related spice.

Derivatives

• Peppercorn (noun)
• Peppery (adjective)
• Peppering (verb, present participle)
• Pepperoni (noun)
• Pepper shaker (noun)

Synonyms

• Spice
• Seasoning
• Capsicum (contextual)

Antonyms

• None

Usage

The term "pepper" is commonly used in culinary contexts and as a metaphor. For example: "She added a pinch of pepper to the soup," or "The speech was peppered with humor."

Related Terms

• Salt: A complementary seasoning often paired with pepper.
• Spice: A broader category of flavoring agents.
• Capsicum: A type of vegetable often referred to as a pepper.

Detailed Definitions

Noun

• A pungent spice: Refers to the spice made from dried and ground peppercorns.
  • Example: "The recipe calls for freshly ground black pepper."
• A plant producing peppers: Describes various plants of the Capsicum genus or Piper nigrum.
  • Example: "Bell peppers are often used in salads."

Verb

• To season with pepper: Refers to adding the spice to food for flavor.
  • Example: "She peppered the steak before grilling it."
• To cover or scatter in large quantities: Describes distributing something in abundance.
  • Example: "The landscape was peppered with wildflowers."