cayenne

noun

cay·​enne (ˌ)kī-ˈen How to pronounce cayenne (audio)
(ˌ)kā-;
ˈkī-ˌen, 
ˈkā-
: cayenne pepper

Examples of cayenne in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
The bold dressing is made with olive oil, lime juice, and a bit of cayenne. — Lizzy Briskin, Better Homes & Gardens, 22 June 2026 In a small bowl, combine the paprikas, cumin, salt, black pepper and cayenne and stir to blend. — Lynda Balslev, Mercury News, 9 June 2026 Add zest and juice of 1 lemon, stir to combine, then season to taste with salt and cayenne, if using. — Tribune News Service, Denver Post, 24 June 2026 Add cherries, zest, cayenne, rosemary, preserves, vinegar and cloves. — Cathy Thomas, Oc Register, 1 June 2026 See All Example Sentences for cayenne

Word History

First Known Use

1773, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of cayenne was in 1773

Phrases Containing cayenne

Rhymes for cayenne

See All Rhymes for cayenne

Browse Nearby Words

Cayapo
cayenne
Cayenne
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Cayenne.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/cayenne. Accessed 7 Jul. 2026.

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Kids Definition

cayenne

noun
cay·​enne ˌkī-ˌen- How to pronounce cayenne (audio)
ˌkā-
: the ground dried fruits and seeds of hot peppers used to add flavor to food

called also cayenne pepper

Geographical Definition

Cayenne

geographical name

Cay·​enne kī-ˈen How to pronounce Cayenne (audio)
kā-
city, port on an estuary on the Atlantic coast, and capital of French Guiana population 37,097

More from Merriam-Webster on cayenne

Nglish: Translation of cayenne for Spanish Speakers

Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about cayenne

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