Definition

1. Noun:
   • A strong, concentrated coffee beverage: "espresso" refers to a type of coffee made by forcing a small amount of nearly boiling water under high pressure through finely-ground coffee beans. It is characterized by its rich flavor, dark color, and a layer of foam on top called crema.

Usage Examples

• Noun:
  • I start my day with a double espresso.
  • The barista expertly pulled a perfect shot of espresso.
  • This café serves the best espresso in the city.

Advanced Usage

• "to pull a shot of espresso": the process of making a single serving of espresso using an espresso machine.
  • It takes skill to pull a consistent shot of espresso.
• "espresso shot": a single serving of espresso, typically about 1 ounce (30 ml).
  • Would you like a single or a double espresso shot?

Variants and Related Words

• Espresso-based drinks (noun phrase): beverages that use espresso as the primary ingredient, such as cappuccino, latte, macchiato, and americano.
  • A latte is an espresso-based drink with steamed milk.
• Espresso machine (noun phrase): a device specifically designed to brew espresso by forcing pressurized hot water through coffee grounds.
  • They bought a professional-grade espresso machine for their home.

Synonyms

• Short black: (chiefly Australian/NZ English) a term for a single shot of espresso served in a small cup.
• Ristretto: an even more concentrated shot of espresso made with less water, resulting in a sweeter, more intense flavor.

Related Phrases

• Doppio (noun): the Italian term for a double shot of espresso.
  • I'll have a doppio, please.
• Crema (noun): the golden-brown layer of foam that forms on top of a well-brewed espresso, consisting of oils, sugars, and proteins from the coffee.
  • A thick, persistent crema is a sign of a good espresso.

Idioms and Common Expressions

• "Wake up and smell the espresso": a playful variation of the idiom "wake up and smell the coffee," meaning to become aware of the reality of a situation.
  • You need to wake up and smell the espresso; this project is due tomorrow!

Noun

1. strong black coffee brewed by forcing hot water under pressure through finely ground coffee beans