Cappuccino

[ˌkæpʊˈtʃiːnoʊ]

Meaning

Italian, an espresso-based coffee drink prepared with steamed milk and milk foam

Background Story

The name comes from the Capuchin friars, referring to the colour of their habits and, in this context, to the colour of the beverage when milk is added in small portions to dark, brewed coffee. The Viennese bestowed the name Kapuziner, possibly in the 18th century, on an early version that included whipped cream and spices. The Kapuziner was later introduced in northern Italy during the period of Austrian domination, and Italians started to use it for the beverage as well as the friar dress.