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

The spicy red peppers are native to South America but were brought to India by Portuguese traders in the early 1500s.

From Science Magazine

It is light yet dense, tangy, sweet and spicy and velvety smooth, except for the chewy texture of the crust, which ranks for some as the best part.

From Salon

Adding heat with a spicy chili pepper can make your cranberry dish more complex while reducing sourness and astringency.

From Salon

"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

Related Words

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