Café
/kæˈfeɪ/noun
A small restaurant or coffeehouse, often serving light refreshments.
Did you know?The term 'Café' is derived from the Arabic word for coffee, 'qahwa', which was once believed to have magical properties that could enhance creativity and awareness.
Etymological Timeline
Arabic
Arabic
قهوة (qahwa)
“A beverage made from roasted coffee beans, originally associated with stimulating effects.”
16th Century
Turkish
kahve
“Borrowed from Arabic, referring to the drink derived from coffee beans.”
17th Century
French
café
“A place where coffee is served, evolving to encompass light meals and social gatherings.”
18th Century
English
café
“Adopted into English to describe a coffeehouse or small restaurant, often with a casual atmosphere.”