peppery

adjective

pep·​pery ˈpe-p(ə-)rē How to pronounce peppery (audio)
Synonyms of pepperynext
1
: of, relating to, or having the qualities of pepper : hot, pungent
a peppery taste
2
: having a hot temper : touchy
a peppery boss
3
: fiery, stinging
a peppery satire
pepperiness
ˈpe-p(ə-)rē-nəs How to pronounce peppery (audio)
noun

Synonyms of peppery

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Examples of peppery in a Sentence

She's a peppery, outspoken woman. the author of several peppery diatribes on religious intolerance
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 flavor of this mushroom is often described as strong and slightly peppery. — Katie Hill, Outdoor Life, 6 Aug. 2026 My father would order the macaroni soup, its peppery broth filled with slices of ham and soft pasta. — Mimi Thorisson, Travel + Leisure, 4 Aug. 2026 In addition to the pops of color, the leaves and flowers are edible, with a peppery tang. — Mary Marlowe Leverette, The Spruce, 1 Aug. 2026 Don’t forget to serve them with chowchow, a colorful veggie condiment with a peppery kick. — Libby Monteith Minor, Southern Living, 25 July 2026 See All Example Sentences for peppery

Word History

First Known Use

1610, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of peppery was in 1610

Browse Nearby Words

pepperwort
peppery
pep pill
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Peppery.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/peppery. Accessed 14 Aug. 2026.

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Kids Definition

peppery

adjective
pep·​pery ˈpep-(ə-)rē How to pronounce peppery (audio)
1
: of, relating to, or having the qualities of pepper : hot
2
: having a hot temper
3
: fiery sense 3a

More from Merriam-Webster on peppery

Nglish: Translation of peppery for Spanish Speakers

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