What aspect of coffee does the term "body" refer to?

The term "body" in the context of coffee specifically refers to the weight or thickness that coffee exhibits when it is on the palate. This tactile sensation contributes significantly to the overall drinking experience and is an important characteristic used to describe coffee. A coffee with a full body may feel creamy and heavy on the tongue, while a lighter-bodied coffee may feel more delicate or thin. Understanding the body of coffee helps consumers appreciate how different brewing methods, coffee types, and preparation techniques can affect this quality.

In exploring the other options, while aroma, flavors, and acidity are all important components of a coffee's overall profile, they address different sensory experiences. Aroma pertains to the scent, flavors relate to the taste sensations that are detected, and acidity describes the brightness and sharpness of the coffee's flavor. However, none of these terms encapsulate the physical sensation of weight or thickness, which is what the term "body" specifically denotes.