espresso

noun

espres·​so e-ˈspre-(ˌ)sō 

variants or less commonly expresso

ik-ˈspre-(ˌ)sō 

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

Many of the remaining tools can each be considered its own multifunctional implement, with a traditional purpose plus a task specific to the coffee-making/serving process or repair and tune of La Marzocco espresso machines. —New Atlas, 16 Nov. 2025

The drink is available hot or iced, and uses real eggnog mixed with shots of Starbucks’ classic espresso. —Sophia Beams, Better Homes & Gardens, 14 Nov. 2025

Your resident espresso martini lover deserves a do-it-all machine that can make excellent shots of espresso and their morning coffee order, whether that's drip, cold brew, or a latte. —Alaina Chou, Bon Appetit Magazine, 13 Nov. 2025

The bakery will later debut a full breakfast and lunch menu, as well as cheesecake and espresso drinks. —Hannah Kirby, jsonline.com, 12 Nov. 2025

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

Rhymes for espresso

• gesso

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Kids Definition

espresso

noun

espres·​so e-ˈspres-ō 

variants also expresso

ik-ˈspres-ō 

plural espressos

: coffee brewed by forcing steam or hot water through finely ground darkly roasted coffee beans