pepper-upper

or pep·per up·per

[ pep-er-uhp-er ]
/ ˈpɛp ərˈʌp ər /

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.

QUIZZES

CAN YOU FEEL THE WEAL WITH THIS WORD OF THE DAY QUIZ?

Did you collect all of last week’s words, but eftsoons forget what they mean? Don’t worry, we’re here to jog your memory. See how many words from the week of May 18 to 24 you can get right!
Question 1 of 7
weal
well-being, prosperity, or happiness.
the intervening time.
a somewhat prolonged, sharp, shrill cry, as of pain, fear, or surprise.
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

pepper spot, pepper spray, pepper steak, pepper tree, pepper-and-salt, pepper-upper, pepperbox, pepperbush, peppercorn, peppercorn rent, peppered moth
Dictionary.com Unabridged Based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2020