# Brewing Time

/ˈbruːɪŋ taɪm/ (US) · /ˈbruːɪŋ taɪm/ (UK) · CEFR B2 · Compound

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/brewing-time
Updated: 2026-09-20

## Definition

the specific amount of time that hot water stays mixed with coffee grounds to extract the flavor and caffeine needed for a good drink

For teachers: the total duration of the contact period between water and coffee particles, during which soluble solids and aromatic compounds are extracted to determine the final strength and flavor profile.

## Examples

- If the brewing time is too short, your coffee will taste sour.
- The barista adjusted the grind size to ensure the brewing time remained consistent for each espresso shot.
- Precise control of brewing time is paramount, as even a ten-second deviation can lead to over-extraction and an unpleasantly bitter astringency in the cup.

---

From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.