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

That said, the portafilter needs a plastic adapter and the espresso cup needs a stand. —Simon Hill, Wired News, 12 July 2025

The peanut butter adds not just a nuttiness that complements the strong coffee flavor of espresso but also a smoothness and creaminess that pairs well with the milk. —Katie Akin, Southern Living, 12 July 2025

All the best coffee maker reviews for a solo coffee experience—that wasn’t espresso—led me back to Moccamaster’s One-Cup. —Julia Harrison, Architectural Digest, 9 July 2025

This automatic espresso machine from Philips delivers fresh coffee and/or espresso at home—and at the perfect temperature, too. —Stephanie Osmanski, Better Homes & Gardens, 8 July 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

Rhymes for espresso

• gesso

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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