light roast
noun
plural light roasts
: a coffee roast (see roast entry 2 sense 3) that is characterized by light brown coffee beans with a dry texture, high acidity, little bitterness, and high caffeine content and that is produced by roasting coffee beans at temperatures typically between 350-410°F (180-210°C)
Because subtle aromas and flavors have not been cooked out of the beans, light roasts will show individual notes like caramel, nuts, fruit, and cinnamon. Light roast also has a little more caffeine than medium and dark roasts.—Lisa Kolb Ruland
While many people enjoy light roasts, some feel that the flavor profile is too extreme. If you're going to enjoy a light roast, you'll want to pay even more attention to make sure you get a high-quality bean.—San Francisco Chronicle
compare dark roast, medium roast
Cite this Entry
“Light roast.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/light%20roast. Accessed 7 Jul. 2026.
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