bubble tea

American  

[buhb-uhl tee] / ˈbʌb əl ˌti /

noun

1. a frothy East Asian beverage consisting of sweetened tea with milk or flavorings, usually served over black pellets, or pearls, of tapioca.

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bubble tea British  

noun

1. a cold drink, originally from Taiwan, of tea infused with fruit flavouring, shaken to produce bubbles, and served over tapioca pearls in a clear cup. It is usually drunk through a very wide straw

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Usage

What does bubble tea mean? Bubble tea, also known as boba, is a Taiwanese drink of tea infused with milk or fruit and served over tapioca balls, called bubbles or boba. How is bubble tea pronounced?[ buhb-uhl tee ]

Etymology

Origin of bubble tea

First recorded in 1990–95

Example Sentences

Bubble tea shops are now nearly as common on British high streets as coffee chains, drawing crowds with colorful, photo friendly drinks in endless flavor combinations.

From Science Daily • Mar. 1, 2026

Bubble tea itself was introduced to the United States in the 1990s by Taiwanese immigrants who settled in Los Angeles.

From Salon • May 17, 2025

Bubble tea cafes and brunch spots have sprung up in place of some that have folded.

From BBC • Jul. 19, 2020

Bubble tea purveyors hope they can fill the void.

From New York Times • Aug. 16, 2017