cup of tea

noun phrase

1
: something one likes or excels in
I see already that storytelling isn't my cup of teaJohn Barth
also : a person suited to one's taste
2
: a thing to be reckoned with : matter
poltergeists are a different cup of teaD. B. W. Lewis

Examples of cup of tea in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web Plug in a floor lamp for nighttime reading, and set a small table near the chair for a cup of tea or books-in-progress. Jessica Bennett, Better Homes & Gardens, 5 Sep. 2023 Sip on Comfort With Sips by Ah, the humble cup of tea — a global symbol of relaxation, warmth, and hospitality. Hilary Tetenbaum, Journal Sentinel, 31 Aug. 2023 More than three daily cups of tea reduced the risk of developing RA. Carol Eustice, Verywell Health, 23 Aug. 2023 For days when one cup of tea just is not enough, this pick by Teabloom is the best tea infuser solution. Adria Greenhauff, Better Homes & Gardens, 7 Aug. 2023 The gourmet treats — which are certified kosher, handmade in the USA, and free from dyes, artificial flavors, and corn syrup — are delicious on their own, stirred into a cup of tea, or even in a cocktail. Jamie Kravitz, Woman's Day, 15 Aug. 2023 But even if contemporary art is not your cup of tea, the hotel's prime location in the heart of North Adams and top-notch amenities (see: the pool and sauna in the basement) are good enough reasons to consider it for your next Berkshires getaway. Dobrina Zhekova, Travel + Leisure, 9 Aug. 2023 The 25-ounce teapot is able to brew one to two cups of tea. Adria Greenhauff, Better Homes & Gardens, 7 Aug. 2023 Grab a tropical cocktail (or a cup of tea) and read on for an all-inclusive guide to some of their favorite places. Janine Henni, Peoplemag, 27 July 2023 See More

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'cup of tea.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

Word History

First Known Use

1932, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of cup of tea was in 1932

Dictionary Entries Near cup of tea

Cite this Entry

“Cup of tea.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/cup%20of%20tea. Accessed 29 Sep. 2023.

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