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

Harrison recommends the espresso shade for its rich color, which happens to pair nicely with her casual bedroom decor. —Julia Harrison, Architectural Digest, 3 Nov. 2025

The shoes feature rich, espresso-brown see-through panels and supple suede along the trim on the heels’ topline. —Karla Rodriguez, Footwear News, 3 Nov. 2025

The Series 1 offers both manual shot pulling, full of data on flow rate, water temperature, and the like, as well as one-button auto brewing that still produces cafe-quality espresso. —Emily Farris, Bon Appetit Magazine, 31 Oct. 2025

Integrated Specialty Small Appliances From a toaster oven with air-fry capability to espresso machines, Hudson included compact, high-function appliances in the kitchen layout. —Elizabeth Fogarty, Better Homes & Gardens, 30 Oct. 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