How to Pronounce espresso

Language: English (from Italian)   IPA: /ɛˈsprɛsoʊ/

Pronunciation explanation

es-PRESS-oh. Not "ex-PRESS-oh". There is no X in espresso. The confusion arises because the word looks like "express" + "o". The Italian word means "pressed out" (as in the coffee is pressed through the machine).

Practice tip

Remember: there is no X. es-PRESS-oh. If you say "expresso" you will be corrected in any Italian café.

Hear the word

Audio availability can vary by browser, device, language and dictionary coverage. Use the button below to open the tool with the word filled in.

Hear espresso →