chipotle

noun

chi·​pot·​le chə-ˈpōt-lā How to pronounce chipotle (audio) chē- How to pronounce chipotle (audio) -ˈpȯt- How to pronounce chipotle (audio) -lē How to pronounce chipotle (audio)
: a smoked and usually dried jalapeño pepper

Examples of chipotle 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.
Cream cheese adds richness, while chipotle chile brings a subtle smoky flavor. — Jasmine Thompson, Midwest Living, 26 Oct. 2026 Share a platter of spicy Diablo Shrimp with a jicama-apple slaw or Lobster Hush Puppies with chipotle tartar sauce. — Katie Strasberg Rousso, Southern Living, 15 Oct. 2026 The creamy chipotle is a superlative pink sauce, with a familiar smokiness heightened by the addition of garlic confit, lime and vinegar. — Jenn Harris, Los Angeles Times, 5 Oct. 2026 Our recipe testers loved the combination of juicy marinated chicken and spicy chipotle sauce. — Sarah Martens, Better Homes & Gardens, 4 Oct. 2026 See All Example Sentences for chipotle

Word History

Etymology

Mexican Spanish chipotle, chilpotle, from Nahuatl *chīlpōctli, from chīlli chili pepper + pōctli smoke, something smoked

First Known Use

1922, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of chipotle was in 1922

Browse Nearby Words

chip on one's shoulder
chipotle
chippable
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Chipotle.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/chipotle. Accessed 1 Nov. 2026.

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