- the dried and prepared leaves of a shrub, Camellia sinensis, from which a somewhat bitter, aromatic beverage is prepared by infusion in hot water.
- the shrub itself, extensively cultivated in China, Japan, India, etc., and having fragrant white flowers.
- the beverage so prepared, served hot or iced.
- any kind of leaves, flowers, etc., so used, or any plant yielding them.
- any of various infusions prepared from the leaves, flowers, etc., of other plants, and used as beverages or medicines.
- beef bouillon.
- any meal, whether a light snack or one consisting of several courses, eaten in the late afternoon or in the evening; any meal other than dinner, eaten after the middle of the afternoon.
- an afternoon reception at which tea is served.
- marijuana.
- interesting or confidential information; gossip; news: I hear you were talking to Sandy yesterday—what’s the tea?
- something suitable, appropriate, or attractive to one: Horror movies and westerns are just not my cup of tea.
- to reveal interesting or confidential information; share gossip: In this exclusive clip, the famous actor spills the tea on who gets offered the best roles first.
- an evergreen shrub or small tree, Camellia sinensis, of tropical and subtropical Asia, having toothed leathery leaves and white fragrant flowers: family Theaceae
- the dried shredded leaves of this shrub, used to make a beverage by infusion in boiling water
- such a beverage, served hot or iced
- (as modifier)
- any of various plants that are similar to Camellia sinensis or are used to make a tealike beverage
- any such beverage
- mainly British
- a light meal eaten in mid-afternoon, usually consisting of tea and cakes, biscuits, or sandwiches
- (as modifier)
- afternoon tea that also includes a light cooked dish
- the main evening meal
- marijuana
- a caring attitude, esp to someone in trouble
