What is an "espresso machine"?

An espresso machine is a specialized coffee-making device designed to brew espresso, a concentrated coffee beverage made by forcing hot water through finely-ground coffee beans under high pressure. Espresso machines come in various types, including manual, semi-automatic, fully automatic, and super-automatic, each offering different levels of control and convenience in the brewing process. To brew espresso, water is heated to near-boiling temperatures and forced through the coffee grounds at high pressure, extracting intense flavors, oils, and aromas in a short amount of time. The result is a small but potent shot of espresso with a rich, creamy texture.