pepper spray

noun

1. an aerosol spray that temporarily irritates the eyes and mucous membranes, used to stun and incapacitate a person or animal:

   police use of pepper spray to control rioters.

pepper spray

noun

1. a defence spray agent derived from hot cayenne peppers, which causes temporary blindness and breathing difficulty, sometimes used to control riots

Word History and Origins

Origin of pepper spray¹

First recorded in 1985–90; the active ingredient is capsaicin, extracted from capsicum peppers

Example Sentences

The wrongful arrest of Sex Education actor Reece Richards by Metropolitan Police officers using pepper spray in west London is to be investigated by a watchdog.

From BBC

The force has admitted pepper spray was used and said its directorate of professional standards, which investigates complaints, had been informed.

From BBC

While on top of Houseton, the indictment alleges, Kirk used his radio to misleadingly report that he was in a fight, just before spraying her twice with pepper spray.

From Los Angeles Times

The owner said he was in the process of opening his store Tuesday morning when Gaston approached him holding a large canister of pepper spray and a handgun, according to the statement.

From Los Angeles Times

Dempsey used flag poles, crutches, pepper spray and pieces of furniture as weapons, in what officials described as a prolonged attack that affected both sides of the melee.

From Los Angeles Times