cocoa

noun

co·​coa ˈkō-(ˌ)kō 

1

a

: powdered ground roasted cacao beans from which a portion of the fat has been removed

b

: a beverage prepared by heating cocoa with water or milk

2

: cacao sense 2

3

: a medium brown color

Examples of cocoa in a Sentence

The recipe calls for three tablespoons of cocoa.

Recent Examples on the Web

While the analysis of health data provided by 200,000 US adults needs further investigation, the researchers believe that high-flavanol cocoa products improve insulin resistance, something not seen in other forms of chocolate. —New Atlas, 30 Dec. 2024

Dark Chocolate Dark chocolate is made from cocoa, which is high in polyphenols, plant compounds with antiviral and anti-inflammatory properties. —Cathy Nelson, Verywell Health, 18 Dec. 2024

Adorned with lights, tinsel, garland and costumed characters, the adventure comes to life as each coach transforms into a lively musical performance while cocoa chefs serve hot chocolate and cookies. —Brandi D. Addison, Austin American-Statesman, 17 Dec. 2024

Strategists at Dutch bank ING said persistent tightness in cocoa and coffee markets, coupled with weather uncertainty, meant that prices were likely to remain volatile through next year. —Holly Ellyatt, CNBC, 17 Dec. 2024

Word History

Etymology

modification of Spanish cacao

First Known Use

1730, in the meaning defined at sense 1a

Phrases Containing cocoa

• cocoa bean
• cocoa butter
• hot cocoa

Kids Definition

cocoa

noun

co·​coa ˈkō-kō 

1

: a cacao tree

2

a

: powdered ground cacao beans from which some of the fat has been removed

b

: a beverage made from heating cocoa with water or milk

Medical Definition

cocoa

noun

co·​coa ˈkō-(ˌ)kō 

1

: cacao sense 2

2

a

: powdered ground roasted cacao beans from which a portion of the fat has been removed

b

: a beverage prepared by heating powdered cocoa with water or milk