What is black pepper? How to use in English

Discover the meaning of black pepper in English, its pronunciation, and how to use it correctly in real-life situations. See examples and easy memorization tips.

Definition & pronunciation of black pepper

black peppernoun
hạt tiêu đen
/ˌblæk ˈpepə(r)//ˌblæk ˈpepər/

Where does the word black pepper come from?

The word "black pepper" derives from the Old French "poivre," which then evolved into the Middle English "peper" in the 14th century. The root of this word can be traced back to the Latin "piper," which means "pepper," likely stemming from the Punic word "piperi" that the ancient Romans learned from their trading partners, the Carthaginians. The ancient Greeks and Romans used black pepper as a seasoning and medicine for over two millennia, importing it from India, where it grew wild. They believed that black pepper had healing properties, including aiding digestion and serving as an antidote for poison. The spice became a highly valued commodity and was even used as a form of currency in ancient times, earning it the nickname "king of spices." Black pepper is still widely used in cuisine today, and its spread around the world is attributed to the ancient spice trade routes that connected Asia, Europe, and Africa centuries ago. The term "black pepper" specifically refers to the dried, unripe fruit of the black pepper plant, which is ground into powder or used as whole berries. Its pungent, tangy flavor adds complexity and depth to dishes ranging from Indian curries to American steaks, making it a versatile and essential ingredient in cuisines worldwide.

Example of vocabulary black peppernamespace

I grind a generous amount of black pepper over the steak before searing it in a hot pan for a bold and flavorful dish.
For my morning scrambled eggs, I add a pinch of black pepper to the beaten eggs for an extra zing.
The spicy and aromatic black pepper in the marinade gives the chicken its unique and tantalizing taste.
The black pepper in the soup simmers slowly for hours, releasing its flavorful oils and adding a rich and complex taste.
As I make my classic Caesar salad dressing, I can't forget the black pepper which brings out the flavors of the garlic and Parmesan cheese.