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

Add a twist to the iconic Arizona silhouette by picking up this monochromatic espresso pair. —Averi Baudler, People.com, 29 Aug. 2025

Spend your first night at the hotel’s rooftop bar and order an espresso martini (with Grey Goose, of course), a Lillet rose tonic (a French favorite, especially at happy hour), or a Mira beer. —Rebecca Deurlein, Forbes.com, 28 Aug. 2025

The Loop and Near North Side Electric Shuffle Play some games of shuffleboard while taking advantage of specials offered throughout the weekend, including $10 espresso martinis and $5 wine, beer and seltzer. —Samantha Nelson, Chicago Tribune, 27 Aug. 2025

Guests also can add pumpkin swirl to their favorite hot or iced coffee, Cold Brew or espresso drink. —Cheryl V. Jackson, IndyStar, 26 Aug. 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