English Reference

Word

grind size

Phoneticsgrind·size

US/ɡraɪnd saɪz/

UK/ɡraɪnd saɪz/

Definition

compound. the physical size of coffee pieces after beans are crushed, which changes how fast water moves through them and how the coffee tastes

compound. a parameter in coffee brewing referring to the degree of fragmentation of roasted beans, which dictates the total surface area available for extraction.

Examples

“You must choose the right grind size for your new coffee machine.”

“The barista explained that a finer grind size is necessary for espresso to ensure a rich crema.”

“Inconsistent grind size can lead to simultaneous over-extraction and under-extraction, resulting in a muddled flavor profile that lacks clarity.”

Examples

simple

“You must choose the right grind size for your new coffee machine.”

contextual

“The barista explained that a finer grind size is necessary for espresso to ensure a rich crema.”

complex

“Inconsistent grind size can lead to simultaneous over-extraction and under-extraction, resulting in a muddled flavor profile that lacks clarity.”

Real-World Examples

“In specialty coffee, the term “grind size” is used to describe how coarse or fine you need to grind your coffee.”
Perfect Daily Grind · 1 Dec 2022
“For his larger manual brews, Daniel uses a grind size close to granulated sugar (the coarser side of medium).”
Perfect Daily Grind · 9 Aug 2021

Etymology

A compound noun combining the Old English 'grindan' (to crush) with the Old French 'sise' (an assessed amount). It emerged as a technical term in specialty coffee during the mid-20th century.

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

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