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

In addition to the many emotions and opinions the poster’s airplane espresso evoked, some TikTok users simply wondered how Cetinkaya got all of the equipment onto the aircraft. —Desiree Anello, PEOPLE, 7 Dec. 2025

Pour into demitasse or espresso cups. —Jenavieve Christensen, Better Homes & Gardens, 7 Dec. 2025

Scoop up our favorite finds, including a pasta roller attachment for making the perfect homemade pasta, an espresso machine to channel your inner barista, and darling towels that serve as the ultimate cleaning companion, from $9. —Alicia Geigel, Southern Living, 3 Dec. 2025

The Eggnog Latte, made with steamed eggnog, espresso and topped with foam and nutmeg, is now available at Starbucks. —Marina Johnson, Louisville Courier Journal, 3 Dec. 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