cayenne

word

Definition

Cayenne is a type of hot chili pepper often used as a spice in cooking. It can also refer to the powdered spice made from this pepper.

Usage & Nuances

'Cayenne' usually means the dried, powdered spice, but it can also refer to the fresh pepper. It's a common ingredient in hot sauces and spicy dishes. Don't confuse it with 'paprika' (milder) or 'chili powder' (broader spice blend). The word is uncountable when referring to the spice.

Example Sentences

I added cayenne to the soup to make it spicy.

basic

Cayenne is very hot, so use only a little.

basic

The chef sprinkled cayenne on the chicken.

basic

This sauce has a real kick—there's definitely some cayenne in it.

natural

Can you handle the heat of cayenne peppers?

natural

A dash of cayenne really livens up scrambled eggs.

natural