chili

noun pl. chilies or chilis

1. the dried pod of red pepper, a very hot seasoning
2. the tropical American hot red pepper (Capsicum frutescens var. longum) bearing this pod
3. any of various other types of peppers, used esp. in Mexican cooking
4. 1. chili con carne
   2. any of various typically milder-flavored dishes like this, often containing other vegetables, pasta, etc. and sometimes meatless