# spicy

Pronunciation: US say "SPY-see" /ˈspaɪsi/; UK

## Adjective

1. Producing a burning sensation in the mouth, caused by capsaicin, the compound found in chili peppers. *(colloquial)*
   - Simple: Tasting hot and burning in the mouth, like chili peppers.
   - _The vindaloo was so spicy that diners reached for water after every bite._
   - _He prefers spicy dishes loaded with fresh green chilies._
2. Containing spices, or having the flavor or aroma that spices give.
   - Simple: Made with spices, or having the taste or smell of spices.
   - _The mulled wine had a warm, spicy aroma of clove and nutmeg._
   - _Gingerbread gets its spicy character from ginger, cinnamon, and molasses._
3. Having a tangy, zesty, or pungent quality of taste or smell.
   - Simple: Having a sharp, strong taste or smell that is fresh and lively.
   - _The aged gouda had a surprisingly spicy bite._
   - _Fresh arugula adds a spicy, peppery note to the dish._
4. Risqué or racy; mildly sexual or suggestive in content.
   - Simple: Sexually exciting in a slightly daring or naughty way.
   - _The novel's spicy chapters helped turn it into a bestseller._
   - _She posted a spicy photo that got everyone talking._
5. Scandalous; involving shocking, improper, or gossip-worthy detail.
   - Simple: Full of shocking news or gossip that people love to talk about.
   - _The tabloid ran a spicy exposé on the senator's affair._
   - _Their divorce became a spicy topic at every dinner party._
6. Vigorous, colorful, and stimulating in character.
   - Simple: Lively, exciting, and full of energy.
   - _The debate took a spicy turn when the candidates traded jabs._
   - _His writing has a spicy, energetic style that keeps readers hooked._
7. Somewhat risky, bold, or mildly aggressive or dangerous.
   - Simple: Slightly risky, bold, or a little dangerous.
   - _The pilot attempted a spicy maneuver close to the canyon walls._
   - _Putting all your savings into one stock is a spicy move._

## Origin

Formed from "spice" plus the suffix "-y", attested since the 16th century.

Source: DictionaryAI, https://dictionaryai.com/define/spicy (written from Wiktionary data, CC BY-SA 4.0: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0/).