espresso

noun

espres·​so e-ˈspre-(ˌ)sō How to pronounce espresso (audio)
variants or less commonly expresso
ik-ˈspre-(ˌ)sō How to pronounce espresso (audio)
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.
Much like the changing leaves, those bright greens and neon yellows of summer will slowly turn into deep espresso browns and warm October oranges. — Odeya Pinkus, InStyle, 5 Sep. 2026 The beaches shimmer in charcoal tones, while sunburnt locals and tourists alike sip espresso beneath striped umbrellas. — Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 3 Sep. 2026 Caramel Apple Pie Macchiato – Made of espresso and whole milk, salted caramel, apple pie flavors and apple butter drizzle. — Saleen Martin, USA Today, 2 Sep. 2026 The espresso-brown Italian leather satchel is a roomy everyday bag that still looks elevated enough for dinner. — Kaitlin Marks, Travel + Leisure, 1 Sep. 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

Rhymes for espresso

See All Rhymes for espresso

Browse Nearby Words

espressivo
espresso
espringal
See all Nearby Words

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Theme music by Joshua Stamper ©2006 New Jerusalem Music/ASCAP

Cite this Entry

“Espresso.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/espresso. Accessed 7 Sep. 2026.

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Kids Definition

espresso

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