black pepper

American  

noun

1. a hot, sharp condiment prepared from the dried berries of a tropical vine, Piper nigrum.

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black pepper British  

noun

1. a pungent condiment made by grinding the dried unripe berries, together with their black husks, of the pepper plant Piper nigrum

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Compare meaning

How does black-pepper compare to similar and commonly confused words? Explore the most common comparisons:

• white pepper vs. black pepper

Example Sentences

See Examples For:

black pepper

She would make bowties in a light Parmesan sauce with peas, ham and an indecent amount of black pepper.

From Salon ● Jul. 28, 2026

The first sheet becomes the main course: four crisp, savory egg tarts with pancetta, pecorino and enough black pepper to evoke cacio e pepe.

From Salon ● Jul. 20, 2026

In a small bowl, stir together the melted butter, olive oil, Pecorino and black pepper.

From Salon ● Jul. 14, 2026

These savory muffins, made with buttermilk, cornmeal, black pepper and just enough onion and garlic powder, are tender, fragrant and endlessly snackable.

From Salon ● Jun. 22, 2026

Smells of black pepper, turmeric, ginger, cinnamon, and garlic mingle happily with the scent of new paint.

From "You Bring the Distant Near" by Mitali Perkins