Cappuccini

Cappuccini, in Italian, is the plural form of cappuccino, the popular espresso-based coffee drink. In English-language usage, cappuccini may appear as a borrowed plural for cappuccino, while the capitalized Cappuccini refers to the Capuchin friars.

The name cappuccino derives from cappuccio, meaning hood, a reference to the hooded robes of the Capuchin order of friars, whose distinctive attire inspired the drink’s name and color.

Traditional cappuccino consists of a single shot of espresso topped with steamed milk and a layer of velvety milk foam in roughly equal measure. It is typically served hot in a small cup and may be finished with a dusting of cocoa or cinnamon; Italian practice often restricts cappuccino to breakfast or morning hours, although worldwide practice varies.

The Cappuccini are a branch of the Order of Friars Minor within the Catholic Church, commonly known as the Capuchins. They emerged in the early 16th century (formally established around 1525) as a reform movement emphasizing poverty, preaching, and simple living. Their brown hooded robes and beards are emblematic of their order.

Outside of drink and religion, Cappuccini is also used as a surname in Italy and appears in some place and institution names, reflecting the general use of Capuchin-related terminology.