espresso

noun

espres·​so e-ˈspre-(ˌ)sō How to pronounce espresso (audio)
variants or less commonly expresso
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
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
It is outfitted with premium BlueStar professional grade appliances, a Miele espresso machine, Miele microwave oven, a two-zone Miele wine refrigerator, and soapstone countertops. James Alexander, Hartford Courant, 5 July 2026 At the other end of the scale, darker woods like walnut or espresso benefit from lighter, cooler hues. Sophie Flaxman, Better Homes & Gardens, 2 July 2026 This unique Tullahoma coffee shop is memorable both for its fantastic espresso drinks and its flair from the other side of the pond. Korrin Bishop, Southern Living, 1 July 2026 When Coffee Has Its Biggest Impact The best time to indulge in that creamy latte or espresso shot often depends on your natural energy levels, your circadian rhythm, and how sensitive your body is to caffeine. Allison Forsyth, Health, 1 July 2026 See All Example Sentences for espresso

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

Time Traveler
The first known use of espresso was in 1930

Browse Nearby Words

Podcast

Cite this Entry

“Espresso.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/espresso. Accessed 6 Jul. 2026.

Kids Definition

espresso

noun
espres·​so e-ˈspres-ō How to pronounce espresso (audio)
variants also expresso
plural espressos
: coffee brewed by forcing steam or hot water through finely ground darkly roasted coffee beans

More from Merriam-Webster on espresso

Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!

More from Merriam-Webster