peppery

[pep-uh-ree]

adjective

1. full of or tasting like pepper; hot; pungent.

   Synonyms: spicy

2. of, relating to, or resembling pepper.

3. sharp or stinging.

   a peppery speech.

   Synonyms: biting

4. easily angered; bad-tempered; irritable; irascible.

   the peppery leader of a political faction.

   Synonyms: choleric, testy, hot-tempered

peppery

/ ˈpɛpərɪ /

adjective

1. flavoured with or tasting of pepper

2. quick-tempered; irritable

3. full of bite and sharpness

   a peppery speech

Other Word Forms

• pepperily adverb
• pepperiness noun
• unpeppery adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of peppery¹

First recorded in 1690–1700; pepper + -y ¹

Example Sentences

The herbs steeped, releasing their piney, slightly peppery fragrance, alongside a spoonful of chicken bouillon, which nudged the sauce firmly into savory territory.

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These peppery greens contain abundant fiber and bioactive compounds, including polysaccharides and antioxidants.

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It’s equally at home as a Tuesday night dinner for friends, especially with a sharp arugula salad on the side — peppery leaves glossed in a citrus vinaigrette that cuts through the butter and cheese.

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In both cases, it’s that subtle, peppery lift that makes a familiar dish feel unexpectedly alive.

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Greek oregano, what most people picture when they say “oregano,” is actually a member of the mint family, floral and peppery.

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Related Words

• piquant 
• pungent 
• spicy 
• zesty