This is one spelling problem that often confuses people. Merriam-Webster says that, depending on where you are from, all of those could be correct when talking about the vegetable. Oops, no. Technically peppers are fruits. If you're buying spices, know that chili powder is a blend that often includes non-pepper spices and can range from mild to spicy. In contrast, a chile powder should be made from only dried peppers. Finally, when you're talking about a bowl of hot, spicy goodness, you're talking about chili. We can debate somewhere else whether that bowl of chili can have beans or tomatoes or anything other than meat.