coffee

[kaw-fee, kof-ee]

noun

1. a beverage consisting of a decoction or infusion of the roasted ground or crushed seeds coffeebeans of the two-seeded fruit coffeeberry 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.

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 called: coffee 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. 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

“I think asking the question ‘who cares?’ is part of any writing project,” Susan Orlean says over coffee on the Valley side of the Hollywood Hills.

Read more on Los Angeles Times

Audiobook enthusiasts convene for coffee and conversation before walking alongside the beach, listening to their audiobooks, and sharing endorsements as they go.

Read more on Los Angeles Times

Meanwhile, ICE Futures will be open to trade products such as cocoa and coffee, while canola contracts will be closed.

Read more on Barron's

Argentina has a history of debasing its currency, which is why its people keep billions of dollars in coffee cans, home safes and mattresses.

Read more on The Wall Street Journal

The illustration included “coffee shops and things of that sort,” he said.

Read more on The Wall Street Journal

Related Words

• caffeine 
• cappuccino 
• espresso