espresso

noun

espres·​so e-ˈspre-(ˌ)sō 

variants or less commonly expresso

ik-ˈspre-(ˌ)sō 

plural espressos also expressos

1

: a strong-tasting coffee that is brewed by forcing hot water under high pressure through finely ground coffee beans and is typically consumed in small servings

2

: a cup of espresso

She ordered two espressos.

Examples of espresso in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Best Artisan Empanadas, Campbell, and Big E Cafe, San Jose The E in the Big E Cafe’s name stands for empanadas, espresso and Ernesto May, the proprietor. —Linda Zavoral, The Mercury News, 21 Jan. 2025

Lavazza, a fixture of coffee sponsorships at tennis’ other three Grand Slam events, is in espresso hoppers in the media areas, but conspicuous by its absence around the wider grounds. —Charlie Eccleshare, The Athletic, 17 Jan. 2025

Matari’s menu mainly consists of drinks: espresso, coffee, chai, refreshers and non-alcoholic mojitos. —Richard Requena, Chicago Tribune, 16 Jan. 2025

Cost: $6 Six word review: Perfectly balanced nutty espresso, comforting lavender. —Tasha Tsiaperas, Axios, 13 Jan. 2025

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