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

Explanation

Allspice is a pungent ground spice that's used in various kinds of baking and cooking. The flavor of allspice is particularly important in jerk chicken and other Caribbean dishes. Allspice was first imported from Jamaica to England in the 16th century. Its distinct flavor, which resembles a combination of cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves, inspired the English name allspice, and some historians credit a physician who accompanied Christopher Columbus with coining the name. The tree which produces the fruit is called an allspice as well, also known as a Jamaican pepper tree.

Example Sentences

Allspice makes a fine alternative; in fact, feel free to play around with different warming spices.

From Washington Post • Dec. 17, 2022

Allspice is a great option if you need a substitute for ginger is a hearty stew, like Jamaican beef stew.

From Salon • Oct. 20, 2021

This tree, Pimenta berciliae, is related to the tree that brings us Allspice, a vital ingredient in food and beauty products.

From BBC • Dec. 20, 2018

SAT Sno-King International Folk Dance Club dancing with the Allspice band, bring finger food to share and dress for spring, 7:30 p.m.

From Seattle Times • Apr. 18, 2013

Allspice, awl′spīs, n. a name given to a kind of spice called Pimenta or Jamaica pepper, from its being supposed to combine the flavour of cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves.

From Chambers's Twentieth Century Dictionary (part 1 of 4: A-D) by Various