Search Dictionary
Definition of chili powder

chili powder

(UK: chilli powder)
Plural:chili powders
JUMP TO:

• noun

1

North American A pungent seasoning blend made primarily from ground dried chili peppers mixed with other spices such as cumin, oregano, and garlic powder, widely used in Tex-Mex and Latin American cuisines.

Example

"She added two tablespoons of chili powder to the simmering pot of beef stew to give it a rich, smoky warmth."


2

Pure, finely ground dried chili peppers with no other additives, used globally to add intense heat and vibrant color to culinary dishes.

Example

"The recipe for the traditional Indian curry called for a teaspoon of vibrant red chili powder."

Word Nuance & Usage

In North American recipes, 'chili powder' typically refers to a relatively mild spice blend containing cumin and oregano, whereas in Indian and international cuisines, it denotes pure, intensely hot ground chili peppers.

Usage Trend

Historical frequency of usage in published text.

180019102020

Cite this Entry


Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Chili powder. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Oct 19, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/chili%20powder
Built for writers, students, and competitive word game players, Wordmom combines an uncluttered English dictionary and thesaurus with fast, pattern-based word finders so you can verify definitions, synonyms, and high-scoring tile plays in one place.
Dictionary & Reference
© 2016–2026 Wordmom Network. All rights reserved. Made with for word lovers everywhere.
Disclaimer: SCRABBLE® is a registered trademark. All intellectual property rights in and to the game are owned in the U.S.A. and Canada by Hasbro Inc., and throughout the rest of the world by J.W. Spear & Sons Limited of Maidenhead, Berkshire, England, a subsidiary of Mattel Inc. Mattel and Spear are not affiliated with Hasbro. Words With Friends® is a registered trademark of Zynga Inc. Wordle® is a registered trademark of The New York Times Company. Other referenced game titles and tournament lexicon codes (including NASPA NWL and WESPA/HarperCollins CSW) are trademarks of their respective owners. Wordmom is an independent reference utility for educational and entertainment purposes and is not affiliated with, sponsored by, or endorsed by Hasbro, Mattel, Spear, Zynga, The New York Times Company, NASPA, WESPA, or HarperCollins Publishers. All game names are referenced strictly under nominative fair use to indicate compatibility.