cayenne

noun

cay·​enne (ˌ)kī-ˈen How to pronounce cayenne (audio)
(ˌ)kā-;
ˈkī-ˌen, 
ˈkā-
: cayenne pepper

Examples of cayenne 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.
In a small bowl, combine the salt, black pepper, turmeric, paprika, and cayenne. — ABC News, 25 Aug. 2026 Breaded in a spicy tempura coating made with a blend of cayenne and chili peppers, the hot nuggets had their first run in September 2020. — Mike Snider, USA Today, 25 Aug. 2026 Creole mustard is a zesty mix of coarsely ground brown mustard seeds, vinegar, and in some cases, spices such as paprika and cayenne. — Marianne Williams, Southern Living, 20 Aug. 2026 The hot chicken here is a touch on the sweet side thanks to a cayenne-forward spice blend that includes brown sugar. — Ellen Fort, Bon Appetit Magazine, 31 July 2026 See All Example Sentences for cayenne

Word History

First Known Use

1773, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of cayenne was in 1773

Phrases Containing cayenne

Rhymes for cayenne

See All Rhymes for cayenne

Browse Nearby Words

Cayapo
cayenne
Cayenne
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Cayenne.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/cayenne. Accessed 1 Sep. 2026.

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Kids Definition

cayenne

noun
cay·​enne ˌkī-ˌen- How to pronounce cayenne (audio)
ˌkā-
: the ground dried fruits and seeds of hot peppers used to add flavor to food

called also cayenne pepper

Geographical Definition

Cayenne

geographical name

Cay·​enne kī-ˈen How to pronounce Cayenne (audio)
kā-
city, port on an estuary on the Atlantic coast, and capital of French Guiana

More from Merriam-Webster on cayenne

Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about cayenne

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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