Peppercorn (noun)

1. The dried, usually ground fruit of the black pepper plant, used as a spice and seasoning.
2. A small, usually dark berry that is dried and used as a spice.

Origin:

From middle english pepercorn, from old english pip(e)rcorn, from latin piper + cornu ("horn").

Examples:

1. The dish was seasoned with freshly ground peppercorns.
2. He offered a peppercorn rent for the house.
3. The peppercorn sauce was delicious.
4. A peppercorn is not a true cereal but a fruit.
5. The salad was sprinkled with a few crushed peppercorns.