pepper spray

American  

noun

1. an aerosol spray that temporarily irritates the eyes and mucous membranes, used to stun and incapacitate a person or animal.

   police use of pepper spray to control rioters.

---

pepper spray British  

noun

1. a defence spray agent derived from hot cayenne peppers, which causes temporary blindness and breathing difficulty, sometimes used to control riots

---

Etymology

Origin of pepper spray

First recorded in 1985–90; the active ingredient is capsaicin, extracted from capsicum peppers

Example Sentences

Then the agent “holstered” his fire arm and pulled out his pepper spray, according to the complaint.

From Los Angeles Times

Willis has called for an investigation into actions taken by ICE agents, including the use of pepper spray and impact munitions.

From BBC

The younger officer held a canister of pepper spray in his right hand, and it seemed as if all eyes in the group were fixed on it.

From BBC

Sometimes local police will scare bears out of residents’ homes with air horns or projectiles that release an irritant akin to pepper spray, but they are legally limited in what they can do.

From Los Angeles Times

Part of the problem, Ms Moyes said, was the public viewed PCSOs differently from police officers since they typically do not have the same powers or equipment, such as handcuffs or pepper spray.

From BBC