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

For a best-in-class example to show your colorist, see Jennifer Lopez's warm caramel tone with hints of espresso and blonde. —Karli Bendlin, PEOPLE, 24 Nov. 2025

Because coffee elevates the flavor of chocolate, espresso or instant coffee is often added to chocolate cakes, brownies, and cookies. —Claire Hoppe Norgaard, Better Homes & Gardens, 24 Nov. 2025

Duluth Coffee Company At first glance, Duluth Coffee Company looks like any other third-wave coffee roaster, with hip industrial-chic vibes to match its La Marzocco espresso machine. —Jacqueline Kehoe, Travel + Leisure, 23 Nov. 2025

American oak, which transmits more profound notes of caramel, toffee, coconut, espresso bean, cocoa powder, a more intense level of vanilla, and bolder tannins, is grown in states including Minnesota, Missouri, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Virginia, and Wisconsin. —Mike Desimone, Robb Report, 23 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