red pepper

noun

1
: a mature red capsicum fruit (such as a sweet pepper or hot pepper)
2
: cayenne pepper sense 1

Examples of red pepper 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.
Sauté green and red pepper and onions in butter until limp; set aside. — Philip Potempa, Chicago Tribune, 19 June 2026 Pigs are cooked whole over wood, broken down, and then dressed with a mixture of cider vinegar, salt, black pepper, and crushed red pepper. — Amethyst Ganaway, Bon Appetit Magazine, 1 July 2026 Microwave it in just a few minutes, then season with sea salt, garlic powder, red pepper flakes, or a squeeze of fresh lemon juice. — Lindsey Desoto, Health, 30 June 2026 Otherwise, combine ¼ cup each of fresh parsley, shallot, and cilantro, plus garlic, vinegar, and crushed red pepper. — Sarah Martens, Better Homes & Gardens, 26 June 2026 See All Example Sentences for red pepper

Word History

First Known Use

1559, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of red pepper was in 1559

Rhymes for red pepper

See All Rhymes for red pepper

Browse Nearby Words

red-pencil
red pepper
red perch
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Cite this Entry

“Red pepper.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/red%20pepper. Accessed 7 Jul. 2026.

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Kids Definition

red pepper

noun
1
: a mature red sweet pepper or hot pepper
2
: cayenne
Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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