English Reference

Word

cold brew coffee

Phoneticscold brew cof·fee

US/koʊld bruː ˈkɔːfi/

UK/kəʊld bruː ˈkɒfi/

Definition

compound. a type of coffee made by soaking grounds in cold water for a long time, resulting in a smooth taste that is not very acidic

compound. a beverage produced by steeping coarse coffee grounds in room-temperature or cold water for an extended period, typically twelve to twenty-four hours, to achieve a low-acidity profile.

Examples

“I love drinking cold brew coffee on a hot summer day because it is very refreshing.”

“The barista recommended the cold brew coffee over the iced Americano for customers who prefer a smoother, less bitter flavor.”

“The artisan roastery specializes in a nitrogen-infused cold brew coffee that highlights the subtle chocolate and stone fruit notes of their Ethiopian heirloom beans.”

Examples

simple

“I love drinking cold brew coffee on a hot summer day because it is very refreshing.”

contextual

“The barista recommended the cold brew coffee over the iced Americano for customers who prefer a smoother, less bitter flavor.”

complex

“The artisan roastery specializes in a nitrogen-infused cold brew coffee that highlights the subtle chocolate and stone fruit notes of their Ethiopian heirloom beans.”

Real-World Examples

“Cold brew coffee is simply a concentrated coffee that's brewed for many hours at room temperature.”
Serious Eats · 12 Aug 2026
“Instant cold brew coffee makers can brew cold coffee in 10 to 20 minutes, but instant coffee powder can also be dissolved in cold water to make cold coffee in, well, an instant.”
Serious Eats · 1 Nov 2024

Etymology

From English 'cold' and 'brew,' describing the temperature and preparation method. While cold steeping has historical roots in Japan (Kyoto-style), the specific term gained global popularity in the early 21st century specialty coffee movement.

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

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English Reference