Homonym: spicy (Exciting)
"Spicy" refers to the heat or pungency of food, often caused by the presence of certain compounds, primarily capsaicin found in chili peppers. This sensation can vary in intensity, with some foods being mildly spicy and others extremely hot. Spicy foods are popular in many cuisines around the world, adding flavor and excitement to dishes.
The level of spiciness is often measured using the Scoville scale, which quantifies the heat of chili peppers and spicy foods based on the concentration of capsaicin. Foods like salsa, curry, and hot sauce can range from mild to very hot, appealing to different taste preferences.