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.
Imagine trying to avoid sunlight, fizz, wine, and espresso in Italy. — Scott Simon, NPR, 8 Aug. 2026 An espresso shot will take closer to a minute and a more involved drink like an iced dirty matcha takes about three minutes. — Sean Krofssik, Hartford Courant, 7 Aug. 2026 There’s something about the spice profile in a classic pumpkin spice latte—a concoction of espresso, steamed milk, and a mix of cinnamon, ginger, cloves, or nutmeg. — René Ostberg, Encyclopedia Britannica, 7 Aug. 2026 Adding a twist to coffee drinks, there will also be espresso with a variety of flavors. — Steve Sadin, Chicago Tribune, 7 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 11 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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