Espresso: meaning, definitions and examples

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espresso

 

[ ɛsˈprɛsoʊ ]

Noun
Context #1 | Noun

coffee drink

Espresso is a concentrated coffee beverage brewed by forcing a small amount of nearly boiling water through finely-ground coffee beans. It is the base for many popular coffee drinks like cappuccinos and lattes.

Synonyms

cafe, coffee, java

Examples of usage

  • I ordered a double shot of espresso.
  • Espresso is often served in small, demitasse cups.
  • She prefers her drinks with a rich espresso flavor.

Word origin

The word 'espresso' originated from Italian, deriving from 'esprimere,' which means 'to express or press out.' This refers to the process of making the coffee, in which water is forced through the coffee grounds at high pressure. It was first developed in the early 20th century and became popular in cafés across Italy. The espresso machine was invented in the 1900s, enhancing the brewing method and contributing to its global spread. Over time, espresso became synonymous with Italian coffee culture, influencing coffee preparation and consumption worldwide.

Word Frequency Rank

At rank #26,742, this word represents specialized academic or technical vocabulary. It's less frequently encountered but may be valuable in specific contexts.