What does latte mean?
A latte is a coffee drink made by combining espresso with steamed milk and, commonly, a thin layer of milk foam. It is one of the most familiar coffee-shop beverages and is served hot or iced, often with flavorings such as vanilla, caramel, or pumpkin spice. A latte is generally milkier than a cappuccino, although recipes and serving conventions vary. The word was borrowed from Italian, where it means “milk”; the fuller Italian expression caffè latte means “coffee with milk.” In English-language use, the term normally refers to the drink itself. In an Italian menu or restaurant context, however, latte can simply mean milk, as when coffee is described as being served with latte. Latte also has a minor informal verb use meaning to make or prepare as a latte, though that form is uncommon in ordinary conversation.
A coffee drink made with espresso and steamed milk, usually finished with a thin layer of foam.
"He started the morning with a large latte."
Also used in Italian-language contexts to mean “milk.”
To make or prepare as a latte.
"The café latted six drinks before opening."
Informal and uncommon.
The usual plural when referring to multiple drinks or different varieties.
"They ordered three lattes and one cup of black coffee."
The Italian word latte simply means “milk,” so the drink’s full Italian name, caffè latte, literally means “coffee with milk.”
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does latte come from?
English borrowed the word from Italian latte, meaning “milk,” from Latin lac, the source of a wider family of European words connected with milk. The English drink name developed through the expression caffè latte, literally “coffee with milk.” The word is attested in English from the mid-19th century, initially in references connected with coffee and Italian dining.
Related word forms
How latte is actually used
In English, the drink is most often pronounced with the final syllable sounding like “tay.” The borrowed Italian meaning “milk” is chiefly encountered in Italian menus. When used as a verb in the informal sense “to make a latte,” the word is uncommon.
Easily confused with latte
A latte generally contains more steamed milk and less foam, whereas a cappuccino traditionally has roughly equal quantities of espresso, steamed milk, and milk foam.