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

Guests were served canapes including a surprisingly brilliant mango and mung bean tartare plus chicken teriyaki kebabs, all washed down with elegant Hugo Spritz and espresso martinis. —Partner Content, Variety, 9 May 2026

Stained glass, vintage floral china, and a bright, airy dining room set the tone, while a leafy flagstone patio invites you to linger over wine or espresso. —Taryn Shorr-McKee, Midwest Living, 8 May 2026

The spaces are outfitted with custom parota wood furniture, Smart TVs, espresso makers, and beautiful artisanal touches like clay planters and bespoke mezcal glasses. —Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 7 May 2026

Inside the clubhouse at Ferry Point, the bar menu lists a $15 espresso martini, while the skirt steak with chimichurri sauce and the pan-seared salmon over tricolor quinoa go for $36 apiece. —Rick Maese, Washington Post, 7 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

Podcast

Get Word of the Day delivered to your inbox!

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