Capsicum Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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capsicum

[หˆkรฆpsษชkษ™m ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

botanical classification

Capsicum refers to a genus of flowering plants in the nightshade family, Solanaceae. This genus includes various types of peppers, which can be sweet or hot, and are commonly used in cooking around the world.

Synonyms

bell pepper, chili, hot pepper, pepper.

Examples of usage

  • Bell peppers belong to the Capsicum genus.
  • Capsicum annuum is a popular variety of chili pepper.
  • Many cuisines use capsicum for its flavor and color.
  • Capsicum plants can thrive in warm climates.
Context #2 | Noun

culinary use

In culinary contexts, capsicum often refers specifically to sweet peppers, including varieties such as bell peppers. They are known for their crunchy texture and mild flavor, making them popular in salads and vegetable dishes.

Synonyms

bell pepper, sweet pepper.

Examples of usage

  • I added capsicum to my salad for some crunch.
  • Capsicum can be roasted or grilled for added flavor.
  • Stir-fried capsicum is a colorful addition to any dish.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Nutrition

  • These vegetables are rich in vitamins A and C, which are great for eyesight and boosting the immune system.
  • They have a low calorie count, making them an excellent choice for a healthy diet.

Culinary Uses

  • In many cuisines worldwide, they are used in salads, stir-fries, and sauces for flavor and color.
  • Stuffed capsicum dishes are popular in various cultures, featuring filling ingredients like rice and meat.

Botany

  • Capsicum plants can be classified into different species, including bell peppers, jalapeรฑos, and chilies, each with unique flavors and heat levels.
  • They are part of the nightshade family, which also includes tomatoes and eggplants.

Cultural Significance

  • In many South American cultures, these vegetables are key ingredients in traditional dishes like salsas and sauces.
  • In some Asian cuisines, spicy varieties are celebrated for their heat, often featured in chili sauces or curries.

Origin of 'capsicum'

Main points about word origin

  • The name comes from the Latin word 'capsa', meaning 'box', which describes the shape of the fruit.
  • Initially, the plants were called 'peppers' because explorers thought they tasted like black pepper, despite not being related.

The term 'capsicum' has its roots in Latin, derived from 'capsa,' which means 'box' or 'container,' referring to the shape of the fruit. The word began to be used in the early 17th century when European botanists were classifying various species of peppers that were recently introduced from the Americas. Initially, the name was applied to both sweet and hot varieties. The genus Capsicum was formally established by the Swedish botanist Carl Linnaeus in the 18th century. As peppers gained popularity, particularly in Spain and Portugal, the name capsicum became widely accepted in scientific and culinary contexts. Over time, different species of Capsicum have been cultivated in various parts of the world, leading to the rich diversity of peppers we see today.


Word Frequency Rank

This word's position of #32,797 indicates it's among the more rare English words. While understanding it broadens your vocabulary, focus on more common words first.