espresso

noun

espres·​so e-ˈspre-(ˌ)sō How to pronounce espresso (audio)
variants or less commonly expresso
ik-ˈspre-(ˌ)sō How to pronounce espresso (audio)
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
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Incorrect Brew Temperature or Pressure While rather technical, Mynatt notes that using incorrect brew temperatures or pressures can have a significant impact on your espresso and latte. — Better Homes & Gardens, 2 Aug. 2026 Each cartridge is one serving, roughly equivalent to a double shot of espresso, and stays shelf-stable for up to 12 months. — ABC News, 1 Aug. 2026 That's good for 37 cups of espresso, or 18 cups of americano. — New Atlas, 1 Aug. 2026 Coach opened four locations of The Coach Coffee Shop in 2025, pairing pastries and espresso drinks with the brand’s handbags and accessories. — Lauren Schuster, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 1 Aug. 2026 See All Example Sentences for espresso

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

Time Traveler
The first known use of espresso was in 1930

Rhymes for espresso

See All Rhymes for espresso

Browse Nearby Words

espressivo
espresso
espringal
See all Nearby Words

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Cite this Entry

“Espresso.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/espresso. Accessed 6 Aug. 2026.

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Kids Definition

espresso

noun
espres·​so e-ˈspres-ō How to pronounce espresso (audio)
variants also expresso
ik-ˈspres-ō How to pronounce espresso (audio)
plural espressos
: coffee brewed by forcing steam or hot water through finely ground darkly roasted coffee beans

More from Merriam-Webster on espresso

Nglish: Translation of espresso for Spanish Speakers

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