spicy

or spice·y

[ spahy-see ]

adjective

, spic·i·er, spic·i·est.

1. seasoned with or containing spice:

   a spicy salad dressing.

2. characteristic or suggestive of spice.
3. of the nature of or resembling spice.
4. abounding in or yielding spices.
5. aromatic or fragrant.
6. piquant or pungent:

   spicy criticism.

   Synonyms: peppery, sharp, hot

7. of a slightly improper or risqué nature; somewhat sexy:

   a spicy novel.

   Synonyms: improper, ribald, racy, suggestive

8. Informal. full of spirit; lively.

spicy

/ ˈspaɪsɪ /

adjective

1. seasoned with or containing spice
2. highly flavoured; pungent
3. informal.
   suggestive of scandal or sensation
4. producing or yielding spices

Derived Forms

• ˈspiciness, noun
• ˈspicily, adverb

Other Words From

• spici·ly adverb
• spici·ness noun
• un·spici·ly adverb
• un·spici·ness noun
• un·spicy adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of spicy¹

First recorded in 1555–65; spice + -y ¹

Example Sentences

"Lemongrass consists of a more floral and earthy aroma, while the other aromas are pungent, spicy or sweet," Loke said.

From Science Daily

Although everyone has their favorite combination—mine is a chili sausage with spicy mustard, the options feel endless.

From Salon

Now her social-media videos garner hundreds of thousands of views as she prepares Vietnamese egg coffee, pandan-flavored desserts and spicy clam curry.

From Los Angeles Times

Following the release of her fourth original comedy special for Netflix, Ali Wong tested her luck with extra spicy chicken wings on this week’s episode of “Hot Ones.”

From Salon

There is seasonal vegetables, seasonal fish, seasonal meat and two different types of aging, fish and meat, with citrus-y, bitter, salty, umami, spicy and sour flavors.

From Salon

Related Words

• appetizing
• aromatic
• distinctive
• fiery
• fragrant
• fresh
• hot
• peppery
• piquant
• savory
• seasoned
• sweet
• tangy
• tasty
• zesty