What does coffeepot mean?
A coffeepot is a lidded vessel, fitted with a handle and a spout, used to brew or serve coffee. It is among the oldest pieces of dedicated coffee equipment, predating electric coffee makers by centuries: early examples of metal coffeepots appeared in Europe in the seventeenth century, soon after coffee drinking spread from the Ottoman world. Designs vary widely, from stovetop percolators and moka pots to elegant porcelain and silver serving pots associated with formal afternoon rituals. The word carries a homely, domestic connotation — a coffeepot steaming on the stove suggests hospitality, routine, and comfort — yet antique coffeepots are also prized collectibles. Today the term most often denotes either the classic serving vessel at the breakfast table or the pot component of a brewing device, distinguishing it from modern machines that brew directly into a carafe.
nounA covered pot with a handle and spout, used for brewing or serving coffee.
- A vessel with a spout and handle, typically lidded, in which coffee is brewed or from which it is served.
"She refilled the coffeepot before anyone could ask."
"Grandmother's silver coffeepot came out only on holidays."
"He set the coffeepot on the stove and waited for it to percolate."
Regular plural formation; the open spelling 'coffee pots' is equally common.
"The shop sells antique silver coffeepots from the Victorian era."
The humble coffeepot was the star of one of art history's most famous still lifes — Picasso painted his blue-toned 'Le Pot de café' in 1944, turning kitchenware into high art.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Etymology of coffeepot
Coffeepot is a straightforward compound of 'coffee' and 'pot'. The word 'coffee' entered English in the late sixteenth or early seventeenth century, borrowed via Dutch 'koffie' or Italian 'caffè' from Turkish 'kahve', which in turn derives from Arabic 'qahwa'. As coffee drinking became fashionable across Europe in the seventeenth century, vessels designed specifically for it emerged, and the compound coffeepot followed naturally.
How coffeepot is actually used
Neutral register, common in both everyday speech and writing. In American usage, 'coffeepot' is often written as one word, while British English more frequently uses the open form 'coffee pot'; both are accepted.
Easily confused with coffeepot
A teapot is for steeping and pouring tea, while a coffeepot is designed for brewing or serving coffee.