chili

/ˈtʃɪli/

/ˈtʃɪli/

Other forms: chilis

A chili is a pungent, spicy pepper, and it's also the name of a delicious stew made of meat and beans that's flavored with chili powder.

A chili, or chili pepper, is actually the berry of a Capsicum plant. Both fresh and dried chilis are used to add some heat and spice to all kinds of dishes, from Mexican mole to Indian curry and Thai stir-fry. They're also an important ingredient in chili con carne, the spicy stew whose name is often shortened to chili. The word derives from the Aztec chilli, "spicy pepper."

Definitions of chili

1. noun

   a very spicy pepper used in cooking that adds heat and strong flavor
   synonyms: chile, chili pepper, chilli, chilly

   types:

   jalapeno, jalapeno pepper

   hot green or red pepper of southwestern United States and Mexico

   cayenne, cayenne pepper

   a long and often twisted hot red pepper

   chipotle

   a ripe jalapeno pepper that is dried and used in cooking, originating in Mexico

   type of:

   hot pepper

   any of various pungent capsicum fruits
2. noun

   a hearty stew made with spices, vegetables, and often beans (with or without meat)
   type of:

   dish

   a particular item of prepared food