pumpkin spice

[puhmp-kin spahys, puhng-kin]

noun

1. Also called pumpkin pie spice. a mixture of spices used especially in American baking, usually including cinnamon, cloves, ginger, nutmeg, and allspice.

   The recipe called for two teaspoons of pumpkin spice.

adjective

1. relating to, flavored or scented with, or evocative of a mixture of spices usually including cinnamon, cloves, ginger, nutmeg, and allspice, and sometimes also including pumpkin flavoring.

   Our pumpkin spice steamed milk is a fall favorite.

   Autumn's a great time for burning pumpkin spice candles.

Word History and Origins

Origin of pumpkin spice¹

An Americanism first recorded in 1930–35

Example Sentences

She enjoys curling up in fluffy pyjamas, drinking pumpkin spice lattes and the smell of cinnamon.

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Fragrances that smell like food have been popular for years, but they used to come in flavors like vanilla or pumpkin spice.

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Officially sold as “leather cleaner,” Double Scorpio also comes in pumpkin spice flavor.

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It’s already pre-seasoned with pumpkin spice, taking the guesswork out of seasoning.

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The scent of pumpkin spice lattes is in the air and leaves are falling, even here in Southern California.

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