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

Look for notes of black pepper, vanilla, citrus, and maple over an assertive, smoky base made up of flavors like iodine, seaweed, campfire, and licorice, and just a touch of heat on the finish at 46 percent ABV. — Jonah Flicker, Robb Report, 5 Oct. 2026

Lightly marinate with French’s mustard; season with salt and a couple turns of black pepper. — ABC News, 2 Oct. 2026

Stir together cilantro, parsley, shallot, garlic, Fresno pepper, vinegar, olive oil, lemon juice, oregano, salt, and black pepper in a small bowl. — Josh Miller, Southern Living, 26 Sep. 2026

Combine brown sugar, salt, and black pepper in a small bowl, then sprinkle the mixture evenly over the potatoes. — Maggie Meyer Glisan, Better Homes & Gardens, 26 Sep. 2026

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