Definition

1. Noun:
   • A type of very hot, spicy pepper: "red pepper" refers to the fruit of certain plants from the genus Capsicum, characterized by their pungent heat and typically red color when ripe. They are often long and thin in shape, though some varieties are very small.
   • A powdered spice: "red pepper" also refers to a spice made by drying and grinding the pods and seeds of these hot red peppers.

Examples of Usage

• Noun (as a vegetable/fruit):

  • The recipe calls for one finely chopped red pepper.
  • Be careful when handling these red peppers; they are extremely hot.

• Noun (as a spice):

  • Add a pinch of red pepper to the soup for some heat.
  • The red pepper fell out of the spice rack.

Advanced Usage

• "crushed red pepper": a common condiment consisting of coarsely ground dried red peppers, often including seeds.
  • He sprinkled crushed red pepper on his pizza.

Variants and Related Words

• Cayenne pepper: A specific type of hot red pepper, often used interchangeably with "red pepper" when referring to the powdered spice.
• Chili pepper / Chilli pepper: A broader term for the fruits of plants from the genus , which can be various colors including red.
• Paprika: A spice made from dried, ground peppers, but typically from milder, sweeter varieties and not synonymous with the hot "red pepper."

Synonyms

• Hot pepper: A general term for pungent peppers.
• Chili (powder): Can refer to a powdered spice blend often containing ground red peppers and other seasonings.

Related Phrases

• Red pepper flakes: Another term for crushed red pepper.
  • The pasta was served with olive oil and red pepper flakes.

Noun

1. very hot red peppers; usually long and thin; some very small
2. ground pods and seeds of pungent red peppers of the genus Capsicum