kopitiam

Hokkien:

咖啡店

poj:

ko-pi-tiàm

expand for details Detailed etymology

definitions

noun

  1. a type of local food centre with multiple stalls selling various foods and drinks, commonly found in Singapore and Malaysia. It is distinct from a hawker centre in that it is usually privately owned and smaller, with only around 3 - 12 stalls in a single L- or U-shaped arrangement. However, the term is sometimes extended to refer to much larger establishments, such as food courts.
  2. Drop by the Repair Kopitiam, and you won't see coffee shop uncles indulging in their daily kopi and kaya toast. In fact, the kopitiam isn't even located in a coffee shop.

    — 2017 March 29. Today, "Inspiring others to care for our environment". p.11

    synonyms:

  3. (as Kopitiam) a Singaporean chain of food courts