A1noun1K

Pepper

UK /["/ˈpepə(r)/"]/US /["/ˈpepər/"]/

Definition

a powder made from dried berries (called peppercorns), used to give a hot, spicy taste to food

In simple words: A spicy or flavorful spice made from ground dried seeds of a plant.

Examples

  • Season with **salt and pepper**
  • freshly **ground pepper**
  • sirloin steak with a pepper sauce
  • Add salt and pepper to taste.
  • He put some pepper on his steak.
  • He gave me a great recipe for stuffed peppers.
  • peppers stuffed with meat and rice

Usage notes

Used commonly in cooking to add flavor. Not typically used in formal writing, more in everyday conversation. Can also refer to different types of vegetables like bell peppers.

Grammar pattern

standalone noun

Memory hint

Think of 'pepper'- a pepper shaker brings a splash of spice to meals!

Collocations

  • crushed
  • ground
  • cracked
  • add
  • put in
  • put on
  • grinder
  • mill
  • pot
  • salt and pepper
  • bell
  • sweet
  • chilli/​chili
  • chop
  • cut
  • slice
  • sauce
  • plant
  • tree

Synonyms

  • spice
  • seasoning
  • chili
  • pimento
  • bell pepper

Antonyms

  • sugar
  • sweetener

Common mistakes

  • Confused with 'paprika', assuming they are the same.
  • Mispronouncing as 'peeper'.
  • Using 'pepper' only to mean the spice, forgetting it can refer to the vegetable.