pumpkin spice

American  

[puhmp-kin spahys, puhng-kin] / ˈpʌmp kɪn ˈspaɪs, ˈpʌŋ kɪn /

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.

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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.

Etymology

Origin of pumpkin spice

An Americanism first recorded in 1930–35

Example Sentences

It really is the pumpkin spice of legal principles.

From Slate • Dec. 5, 2025

On the company’s marketed Red Cup Day, customers who order a holiday-themed beverage, such as the popular pumpkin spice latte, receive a free limited-edition reusable red cup.

From Los Angeles Times • Nov. 13, 2025

Writing that is like writing “cats are furry” or “it’s pumpkin spice season.”

From Salon • Oct. 20, 2025

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

From The Wall Street Journal • Oct. 8, 2025

I would eat pumpkin spice scrambled eggs in the middle of October.

From "The Serpent King" by Jeff Zentner