English Lexicon

Piri-piri

/ˌpɪə.riˈpɪə.ri/
nounCEFR B2 (Upper)Top #45200 frequency
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Comprehensive Definitions & Senses

2 senses
As noun
  1. 1

    A very small, extremely hot variety of chili pepper originating in Africa, belonging to the species Capsicum frutescens.

    "The recipe calls for finely chopped piri-piri to give the marinade its signature kick."
  2. 2

    A spicy sauce or condiment made from crushed piri-piri chilis, oil, vinegar, and various aromatics.

    "He brushed the chicken generously with piri-piri before grilling it over an open flame."

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Antonyms & Contrasting Words (1)

Linguistic Origin & Historical Etymology

Derived from the Ronga language of southern Mozambique, where 'piri' translates to 'pepper'. The reduplicated form was popularized globally through Portuguese trade and colonial influence in Africa, eventually establishing itself in international culinary lexicon as a descriptor for fiery chili varieties and sauces.

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