Spicy

Definition

The term "spicy" refers to food that is flavored with strong or hot spices, or something that is lively, exciting, or provocative in nature.

Parts of Speech

• Adjective

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˈspaɪ.si/
• Respelling: SPY-see

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˈspaɪ.si/
• Respelling: SPY-see

Etymology

The word "spicy" is derived from the Middle English "spic," meaning "spice," which itself comes from the Old French "espice" and the Latin "species," meaning "kind" or "type." The suffix "-y" was added in English to denote "having the qualities of spice."

Derivatives

• Spiciness (noun)
• Spiced (adjective)
• Spicing (verb, rare)
• Unspicy (adjective)
• Over-spicy (adjective)

Synonyms

• Hot
• Flavored
• Piquant

Antonyms

• Bland
• Mild
• Flavorless

Usage

The term "spicy" is commonly used to describe food with a strong or hot flavor, as well as situations or content that are exciting or provocative. For example, "This curry is very spicy," or "Her speech added a spicy twist to the event."

Related Terms

• Spice: A substance used to flavor food.
• Peppery: Containing or resembling pepper in flavor.
• Savory: Pleasantly flavored, often salty or spicy.

Detailed Definitions

Adjective

• Containing or seasoned with spices, especially those that produce a hot flavor:
  • Example: "The dish was too spicy for her taste."
• Provocative, lively, or exciting in nature:
  • Example: "The novel includes several spicy scenes."
• Sharp or pungent in smell or taste:
  • Example: "The air was filled with a spicy aroma."