Chili

Part of Speech

Noun

Pronunciation

/ˈtʃɪli/

Definitions

• A small, pungent fruit from the Capsicum plant, typically used as a spice or vegetable.
• A spicy dish, especially a stew or sauce, made with chili peppers, beans, meat, and seasonings.

Usage Examples

• "She added a few chili peppers to the stew for extra heat."
• "He enjoyed a bowl of chili on the cold winter night."

Etymology

The word "chili" comes from the Nahuatl word "chīlli," which means "pepper." It was adopted into Spanish and then into English during the 17th century.

Synonyms

• Capsicum
• Chili pepper
• Hot pepper

Antonyms

• Sweet pepper
• Mild pepper

Translations

Regional Pronunciation Variations

The pronunciation of "chili" can vary by region. In some English-speaking areas, the word is pronounced with a hard "ch" sound, while in others, particularly in Spanish-speaking countries, the "ch" may be softer.

Historical Usage

Chili peppers were first cultivated by indigenous peoples in Central and South America. They were later spread to other parts of the world after the Columbian exchange in the 15th and 16th centuries. Chili is now a global culinary ingredient.

Cultural Nuances

In many cultures, chili peppers are not just a food ingredient but also an important part of the cultural identity. For instance, in Mexico, chili peppers are integral to many traditional dishes, such as mole and salsas, while in India, chilies are used extensively in both cooking and for medicinal purposes.

More Information

Chili peppers belong to the Capsicum genus, and there are many varieties, ranging from mild to extremely hot. The heat in chili peppers comes from capsaicin, a compound that can cause a burning sensation when consumed. Aside from culinary uses, chilies are also believed to have health benefits, including boosting metabolism and improving heart health.