espresso

noun

espres·​so e-ˈspre-(ˌ)sō 

variants or less commonly expresso

ik-ˈspre-(ˌ)sō 

plural espressos also expressos

1

: coffee brewed by forcing hot water through finely ground usually darkly roasted coffee beans

2

: a cup of espresso

Examples of espresso in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

The menu includes full-bodied espresso and smooth oat milk chai latte; pair them with melt-in-your-mouth banana bread or tasty savory sandwiches. —Jade Simon, Vogue, 20 June 2024

Its expansive beverage menu features a variety of draft, bottled and canned beers, wine, cocktails and non-alcoholic options like espresso and Moroccan mint tea service. —Haadiza Ogwude, The Enquirer, 31 May 2024

For example, Norwegian Cruise Line offers studio cabins for single travelers that include access to an exclusive lounge with complimentary espresso and snacks. —Alison Fox, Travel + Leisure, 27 May 2024

The gourmet kitchen is adorned with top-of-the-line appliances including a sub-zero refrigerator, custom cabinetry with lights, quartz countertops, an espresso bar, dual dishwashers, a propane stove, a prep island with two sinks and a backsplash with handmade tile from Spain. —Karen A. Avitabile, Hartford Courant, 26 May 2024

Word History

Etymology

Italian (caffè) espresso, probably literally, coffee made on the spot at the customer's request

First Known Use

1930, in the meaning defined at sense 1

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Kids Definition

espresso

noun

espres·​so e-ˈspres-ō 

variants also expresso

ik-ˈspres-ō 

plural espressos

: coffee brewed by forcing steam or hot water through finely ground darkly roasted coffee beans