Definition of the word pep

The word "pep" originally came from the Acadian French dialect spoken in the Canadian province of New Brunswick. In this dialect, the word "peps" meant "pepper" or "peppers." The term was commonly used to describe a variety of hot spices collectively, including peppercorns, cayenne, and chili peppers. The usage of the term "pep" in the English language can be traced back to the late 1800s, particularly in the context of sports. It was commonly used as a term of encouragement and motivation for sportspersons, particularly in Atlantic Canada and the Maritimes regions of eastern Canada. The use of "pep" in this context was intended to inspire athletes with the "spirit and energy" (i.e., "pep") that they needed to excel. As the popularity of sports grew in North America, the use of "pep" spread to other English-speaking countries. Today, "pep" is commonly used as a term of encouragement in various contexts, including political rallies, motivational speeches, and pep talks, among others. Whether it is a sports team, political campaign, or any other group aiming to achieve a common goal, "pep" is a rallying call that inspires individuals to work together and put in their best efforts.