English Reference

Word

arabica

PhoneticsA·rab·i·ca

US/əˈræbɪkə/

UK/əˈræbɪkə/

Definition

n. a high-quality type of coffee bean known for its sweet, complex flavor and pleasant smell, which makes up most of the world's coffee supply

n. a species of coffee plant, Coffea arabica, valued for its superior acidity and aromatic complexity compared to other species, typically cultivated at high altitudes.

Examples

“I prefer the taste of Arabica coffee because it is not too bitter.”

“The local roastery prides itself on sourcing 100% Arabica beans from small farms in Ethiopia.”

“The delicate floral notes and bright acidity characteristic of high-altitude Arabica are often lost if the beans are subjected to a dark roast.”

Examples

simple

“I prefer the taste of Arabica coffee because it is not too bitter.”

contextual

“The local roastery prides itself on sourcing 100% Arabica beans from small farms in Ethiopia.”

complex

“The delicate floral notes and bright acidity characteristic of high-altitude Arabica are often lost if the beans are subjected to a dark roast.”

Real-World Examples

“At one end of the market, arabica beans, known for their sweetness and aroma, are hand-picked at cool altitudes in Brazil, Ethiopia, and Kenya; it's a careful process, even more intricate than the harvesting of grapes for the finest champagne.”
BBC News · 28 May 2026
“Arabica accounts for 70% of worldwide coffee production and is favored for its superior taste profile.”
The Guardian · 4 Oct 2023

Etymology

Derived from the Latin 'arabica', meaning 'Arabian', as the plant was famously cultivated and traded in the Arabian Peninsula during the 15th century.

Etymology adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.

This entry

Level
B1 · Intermediate
Frequency
Occasional
Updated

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