coffeemaker
Pronunciation
UK
- /kˈɒfɪmˌeɪkə/
US
- /ˈkɑ.fiˌmeɪk.ər/noun
Description
- Coffee-brewing machine
- Kitchen appliance for coffee
- Drip brewer
- Espresso machine
- Pod brewer
A coffeemaker isn't just about the caffeine kick; it's a little kitchen wizard transforming water and ground coffee into liquid energy. Think of it as a dedicated tool for the ritual of the morning (or afternoon!) brew. While historically, making coffee involved stovetop percolators or pour-over methods, today "coffeemaker" usually refers to an electric appliance that automates the process (often written as "coffee maker" or "coffee-maker").
But the term can be broader! It might describe a simple drip machine, a fancy espresso maker with all the bells and whistles, or even a single-serve pod system. You wouldn't ask a barista for a "coffeemaker" at a coffee shop – you'd order a latte made with one. Context is key! A coffeemaker isn't the coffee itself, but the tool that brings it to life.
A coffeemaker is an appliance used to brew coffee (more commonly written as "coffee maker" or "coffee-maker"). While the concept of brewing coffee has existed for centuries – think Turkish cezves or early percolators – the term "coffeemaker" today generally refers to electric appliances designed to automate the process. These range from basic drip machines, which slowly filter hot water through ground coffee, to more sophisticated models like espresso makers and single-serve pod systems (like Keurig).
The word "coffeemaker" is fairly straightforward in its meaning, but it's important to understand what kind of coffeemaker someone is referring to. A "coffeemaker" in a diner might be a large commercial machine capable of brewing gallons at a time. At home, it's likely a smaller appliance sitting on your countertop.
The term can also be used more broadly to describe any device that makes coffee, even if it's not electric—especially in the two-word form ("coffee maker"). You could say, "She made coffee with a French press," and you might still casually refer to the French press as her coffee maker.
Consider these examples: "He programmed the coffeemaker the night before so he'd have fresh coffee waiting for him in the morning." Or, "The office coffeemaker is always broken, which makes Mondays even harder." And finally, "She's a bit of a coffeemaker connoisseur – she has one for every type of brew!"
So, whether it's a simple drip machine or a high-tech espresso setup, the coffeemaker is a central fixture in many kitchens and a vital tool for coffee lovers everywhere.
Examples
- 1
Kitchen appliance
We bought a new coffeemaker for the kitchen.
- 2
Cleaning
I forgot to clean the coffeemaker, so the coffee tasted bitter this morning.
- 3
Office problem
The office coffeemaker stopped working again, so we went out for coffee.
Forms and spellings
1 form open this card.
Main spelling
- coffeemakernoun