allspice

American  

[awl-spahys] / ˈɔlˌspaɪs /

noun

1. the dried, unripe berries of an aromatic tropical American tree, Pimenta dioica, used whole or ground as a spice.

2. the tree itself.

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allspice British  

/ ˈɔːlˌspaɪs /

noun

1. a tropical American myrtaceous tree, Pimenta officinalis, having small white flowers and aromatic berries

2. the whole or powdered seeds of this berry used as a spice, having a flavour said to resemble a mixture of cinnamon, cloves, and nutmeg

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Etymology

Origin of allspice

First recorded in 1615–25; all + spice

Example Sentences

I order French-style beef cubes, which are chunks of meat seasoned with spices like allspice and other ingredients you would find in French food with a Vietnamese influence.

From Los Angeles Times • Nov. 28, 2025

Across Central America, Indigenous and local communities are working to restore damaged lands, prevent forest fires, and revive traditional, bird-friendly livelihoods such as sustainable allspice and cacao production.

From Science Daily • Nov. 22, 2025

“I always loved warming spices like cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, allspice and cloves,” Hutchings wrote.

From Salon • Nov. 19, 2024

Start with a spiced, citrus base, made with lemon peels muddled with brown sugar, cinnamon, cloves, allspice, star anise, black peppercorns and tea leaves.

From Seattle Times • Dec. 10, 2023

The smell followed her around the kitchen like it was on a leash, a combination of allspice, fresh earth, and rotten leaves.

From "The Secret Life of Bees" by Sue Monk Kidd