pepper-upper

or pep·per up·per

[ pep-er-uhp-er ]

/ ˈpɛp ərˈʌp ər /

Save This Word!

noun Informal.

something, as a food, beverage, or pill, that provides a quick but temporary period of energy and alertness.

something added to food to relieve blandness.

an experience that increases enthusiasm or zeal, as a pep talk.

QUIZ

CAN YOU ANSWER THESE COMMON GRAMMAR DEBATES?

There are grammar debates that never die; and the ones highlighted in the questions in this quiz are sure to rile everyone up once again. Do you know how to answer the questions that cause some of the greatest grammar debates?

Question 1 of 7

Which sentence is correct?

His boss, whom he admires, is waiting to meet with him about the big project.

His boss, who he admires, is waiting to meet with him about the big project.

TAKE THE QUIZ TO FIND OUT

Origin of pepper-upper

1935–40; pep up + -er¹, suffixed pleonastically to both v. and particle

Words nearby pepper-upper

peppershrike, pepper spot, pepper spray, pepper steak, pepper tree, pepper-upper, pepperwood, pepperwort, peppery, pep pill, peppy