coffee

[ kaw-fee, kof-ee ]

noun

1. a beverage consisting of a decoction or infusion of the roasted ground or crushed seeds coffeebeans of the two-seeded fruit coffeeberry of certain coffee trees.
2. the seeds or fruit themselves.
3. any tropical tree or shrub of the genus Coffea, of the madder family, especially C. arabica and C. canephora, cultivated commercially. Compare Arabian coffee, robusta coffee.
4. a cup of coffee:

   We ordered four coffees and three doughnuts.

5. a social gathering at which coffee and other refreshments are served.
6. medium to dark brown.

adjective

1. coffee-colored.

coffee

/ ˈkɒfɪ /

noun

1. 1. a drink consisting of an infusion of the roasted and ground or crushed seeds of the coffee tree
   2. ( as modifier )

      coffee grounds

2. Also calledcoffee beans the beanlike seeds of the coffee tree, used to make this beverage
3. short for coffee tree
4. 1. a medium to dark brown colour
   2. ( as adjective )

      a coffee carpet

5. wake up and smell the coffee
   See wake 1

Word History and Origins

Origin of coffee¹

1590–1600; < Italian caff è < Turkish kahve < Arabic qahwah

Word History and Origins

Origin of coffee¹

C16: from Italian caffè, from Turkish kahve, from Arabic qahwah coffee

Example Sentences

He said we should have a coffee in Paris, which is where I showed him my portfolio.

From Los Angeles Times

The area is known for its coffee plantations and beautiful landscapes and is popular with both national and international tourists.

From BBC

And in an episode dedicated to Astoria — a nice change of view — a stereotypical housewife from a TV coffee commercial materializes in her living room.

From Los Angeles Times

I am making sure my morning coffees remain in the morning, and I am trying to keep the lights off if I pop to the loo.

From BBC

If Weekend 2 temperatures are similarly assaulting as they were at Weekend 1, you’ll want to seek out the tiki bar oasis in 12 Peaks VIP Area near Menotti’s coffee stand.

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• caffeine
• cappuccino
• espresso