cayenne

noun

cay·​enne (ˌ)kī-ˈen How to pronounce cayenne (audio)
(ˌ)kā-;
ˈkī-ˌen, 
ˈkā-
: cayenne pepper

Examples of cayenne in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
The hot chicken here is a touch on the sweet side thanks to a cayenne-forward spice blend that includes brown sugar. — Ellen Fort, Bon Appetit Magazine, 31 July 2026 Add the garlic, lemon juice and zest, the cumin, coriander, paprika and cayenne to the couscous and stir to combine. — Lynda Balslev, Mercury News, 21 July 2026 In a separate small bowl, combine cayenne (if using), cinnamon, chili powder, and ½ teaspoon salt. — Cate Huguelet, Chicago Tribune, 20 July 2026 Despite the slightly terrifying amount of cayenne, there is more than enough butter and margarine (2 cups total) to balance out this dish. — Alana Al-Hatlani, Southern Living, 17 July 2026 See All Example Sentences for cayenne

Word History

First Known Use

1773, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of cayenne was in 1773

Phrases Containing cayenne

Rhymes for cayenne

See All Rhymes for cayenne

Browse Nearby Words

Cayapo
cayenne
Cayenne
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Cayenne.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/cayenne. Accessed 5 Aug. 2026.

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Kids Definition

cayenne

noun
cay·​enne ˌkī-ˌen- How to pronounce cayenne (audio)
ˌkā-
: the ground dried fruits and seeds of hot peppers used to add flavor to food

called also cayenne pepper

Geographical Definition

Cayenne

geographical name

Cay·​enne kī-ˈen How to pronounce Cayenne (audio)
kā-
city, port on an estuary on the Atlantic coast, and capital of French Guiana population 37,097

More from Merriam-Webster on cayenne

Nglish: Translation of cayenne for Spanish Speakers

Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about cayenne

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