cocoa

noun

co·​coa ˈkō-(ˌ)kō 

1

a

: powdered ground roasted cacao beans from which a portion of the fat has been removed

b

: a beverage prepared by heating cocoa with water or milk

2

: cacao sense 2

3

: a medium brown color

Examples of cocoa in a Sentence

The recipe calls for three tablespoons of cocoa.

Recent Examples on the Web

In a large, microwave-safe bowl, combine the butter, sugar, cocoa and salt. —Kelly Brant, Arkansas Online, 14 Apr. 2026

They’re made with flour, sugar, butter and eggs, whisked together with flavorings such as anise, lemon, vanilla and cocoa, then baked in a special device. —Bestreviews, Mercury News, 13 Apr. 2026

On the base of the cake is a cocoa graham cracker crust, topped with creamy cheesecake infused with cold brew coffee. —Sophia Beams, Better Homes & Gardens, 13 Apr. 2026

Snag the popular bralette in beige, mocha, black, or cocoa. —Jacqueline Tempera, PEOPLE, 10 Apr. 2026

Word History

Etymology

modification of Spanish cacao

First Known Use

1730, in the meaning defined at sense 1a

Phrases Containing cocoa

• cocoa bean
• cocoa butter
• hot cocoa

Rhymes for cocoa

• koko
• loco
• poco
• sirocco

Kids Definition

cocoa

noun

co·​coa ˈkō-kō 

1

: a cacao tree

2

a

: powdered ground cacao beans from which some of the fat has been removed

b

: a beverage made from heating cocoa with water or milk

Medical Definition

cocoa

noun

co·​coa ˈkō-(ˌ)kō 

1

: cacao sense 2

2

a

: powdered ground roasted cacao beans from which a portion of the fat has been removed

b

: a beverage prepared by heating powdered cocoa with water or milk