peppergrass

American  

[pep-er-gras, -grahs] / ˈpɛp ərˌgræs, -ˌgrɑs /

noun

1. any pungent plant belonging to the genus Lepidium, of the mustard family, used as a potherb or salad vegetable.

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peppergrass British  

/ ˈpɛpəˌɡrɑːs /

noun

1. any of various temperate and tropical aquatic or marsh ferns of the genus Marsilea, having floating leaves consisting of four leaflets: family Marsileaceae

2. Also called (in Britain and certain other countries): pepperwort.  any of several plants of the genus Lepidium, esp L. campestre, of dry regions of Eurasia, having small white flowers and pungent seeds: family Brassicaceae (crucifers)

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Etymology

Origin of peppergrass

late Middle English word dating back to 1425–75; pepper, grass

Example Sentences

Fish and Wildlife Service to finalize new critical habitat for slickspot peppergrass this summer.

From Washington Times • Jul. 23, 2020

“More acres should have been included, but we’re happy to see the slickspot peppergrass finally getting the additional protection it needs,” Andrea Zaccardi, senior attorney with the Center for Biological Diversity, said in a statement.

From Washington Times • Jul. 23, 2020

He pointed to the case of the slickspot peppergrass.

From Science Magazine • Jul. 28, 2011

Debate had since erupted over whether conservationists could limit cattle grazing on certain Bureau of Land Management lands due to the presence of slickspot peppergrass and other sensitive species, the Associated Press reported yesterday.

From Science Magazine • Jul. 28, 2011

We prefer early lettuce to cresses or peppergrass, and see no reason for their cultivation, but their rapid growth.

From Soil Culture by Walden, J. H.