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 Certainly, having activities planned from 8 a.m. to 11 p.m. might not be everyone’s cup of tea. Sherry Kuehl, Kansas City Star, 3 Apr. 2024 Top with Meyer Lemon Sugar Glaze for a cookie version of a cup of tea with fresh lemon. Sunset Magazine, 25 Mar. 2024 Relax, pour a cup of tea, and pat yourself on the back for preparing your family's finances for your new arrival. Becky Batcha and Hiranmayi Srinivasan, Parents, 29 Mar. 2024 When confronted with aches, pains, or stress, many people turn to their favorite cup of tea. Lauren Manaker Ms, Rdn, Health, 13 Mar. 2024 Another tea protest: An American chemistry professor suggested adding a pinch of salt to create the perfect cup of tea. David Leonhardt, New York Times, 25 Jan. 2024 But even if that’s not your cup of tea, finding awe can be simple. Julia Carmel, Los Angeles Times, 19 Jan. 2024 Brits drink approximately 100 million cups of tea each day, according to the UK Tea and Infusions Association. Simon Constable, Forbes, 26 Feb. 2024 Hail, Caesar! leans in on Hollywood lore, which may not be everyone's cup of tea. Tim Moffatt, EW.com, 26 Jan. 2024

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 23 Apr. 2024.

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