If you’re new to coffee, chances are you’ve encountered two different spellings for one of the most beloved coffee drinks: espresso and expresso. But which one is correct, and where did the confusion come from? Let’s dive into the fascinating history of espresso and the reason behind one of the most common coffee-related slip-ups.
The Origins of Espresso
The word espresso comes from the Italian term caffè espresso, which translates to “pressed coffee” or “expressed coffee.” The name refers to the brewing method: hot water is forced through finely ground coffee under high pressure, producing a concentrated, bold shot of coffee with a signature crema.
Where Did “Expresso” Come From?
Despite espresso’s Italian origins, many English speakers mistakenly spell and pronounce it as expresso. This confusion stems from a few key factors:
- Linguistic Influence – The word “express” exists in English and has meanings related to speed and efficiency, much like espresso’s quick brewing process. Many assume “expresso” is a natural variation.
- Phonetic Similarity – How “espresso” is pronounced often sounds close to “expresso,” leading to common mistakes in speech and writing.
- Historical Usage – Interestingly, some dictionaries (including older editions of Merriam-Webster) have listed “expresso” as a variant spelling. Even in French, expresso has been used as an alternative spelling, further fueling the mix-up.
Which One Is Correct?
Espresso is the only correct spelling when referring to the coffee drink. To impress baristas and fellow coffee lovers, stick with espresso and avoid “expresso.” While “expresso” has a history of usage, know that people within coffee culture are quietly judging you!
Now that you know!
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