pumpernickel

[puhm-per-nik-uhl]

noun

1. a coarse, dark, slightly sour bread made of unbolted rye.

pumpernickel

/ ˈpʌmpəˌnɪkəl /

noun

1. a slightly sour black bread, originating in Germany, made of coarse rye flour

Word History and Origins

Origin of pumpernickel¹

First recorded in 1750–60; from German Pumpernickel, originally a contemptuous name for anyone considered disagreeable, equivalent to pumper(n) “to break wind” + Nickel, diminutive or pet name of Nikolaus “Nicholas” ( nickel ); presumably applied to the bread from its effect on the digestive system

Word History and Origins

Origin of pumpernickel¹

C18: from German, of uncertain origin

Example Sentences

However, there are no rules: If you want, you can use sourdough, pumpernickel, whole grain, etc.

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One of my favorite creations is to have it on a piece of pumpernickel bread, topped with thinly sliced cucumbers and toasted until piping hot.

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Toss in some chopped apples and golden raisins, sandwich in between rye or pumpernickel bread with a copious amount of crisp lettuce and you'll be stunned by its outrageous flavor.

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“And I said, ‘Do you know the etymology of the word ‘pumpernickel?’

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Bagel snobs will be pleased that this Montlake bakery does pumpernickel, which some readers have complained that local bagel shops don’t offer enough of.

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