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

Look for espresso drinks, teas, rotating seasonal beverages and pastries. —Kate Williams, AJC.com, 29 May 2026

Eight years ago, Kathleen Bucci Bergeron stopped by a downtown East Dundee bakery for an espresso and left with a postcard that would change her life — and that of the village’s dining scene. —Mike Danahey, Chicago Tribune, 29 May 2026

This month, a mini salad spinner perfect for small households, a put-it-on-everything spice blend, and a compact espresso machine that does all of the work for you. —Alaina Chou, Bon Appetit Magazine, 29 May 2026

Another guest who consistently critiques coffee quality might respond positively to in-room espresso machines or specialty brewing options. —Guy Yehiav, Forbes.com, 28 May 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