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

The espresso martini and French 75 cocktails reimagine the traditional in-room beverage experiences as they are displayed in every category’s Honor Bar, which allows guests to discover them at their leisure. — Jillian Dara, Forbes.com, 22 Aug. 2026

Customers can look forward to signature espresso, chai and matcha martinis. — Tanasia Kenney, Charlotte Observer, 21 Aug. 2026

An array of coffee drinks include standard espresso and Americano coffees to its signature banana bread latte. — Emma Hall, Sacbee.com, 20 Aug. 2026

The city is full of sophisticated cafes, where locals gather for specialty espresso drinks or aperitivo. — Laura Itzkowitz, Travel + Leisure, 20 Aug. 2026

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