espresso

es-pres-so · noun

imported

Definitions

noun

  1. 1.

    A type of strong coffee made by forcing steam or hot water through finely ground dark-roasted coffee beans.

  2. 2.

    A small cup of this type of coffee.

Forms

plural: espressos

Phrases & expressions

  • espresso machine — a device for making espresso coffee
  • espresso bar — a cafe specializing in espresso-based drinks
  • double espresso — two shots of espresso in one cup
  • espresso shot — a single serving of espresso

Related words

Etymology

From Italian espresso, past participle of esprimere ("to press out, express"), from Latin exprimere. The name refers to the coffee being made expressly (quickly) for the customer by pressing water through the grounds.