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.
Cottin remains a drily smart, likably peppery lead, perfectly countering the spiraling scattiness of the wonderful Calamy. — Guy Lodge, Variety, 30 Aug. 2026 The chicken hits with a peppery snap, citrusy and resinous with a trace of fenugreek lurking in the background. — Jenn Harris, Los Angeles Times, 27 Aug. 2026 Get it with mustard or a peppery chili, just not solely ketchup (per house rules). — Matt Cortina, USA Today, 15 Aug. 2026 Add a can of white beans for heft and serve with peppery greens like arugula or a hardy chicory like radicchio. — Rebecca Firkser, Bon Appetit Magazine, 13 Aug. 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 4 Sep. 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
Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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