Pronunciation: [stˈiːpəz] (IPA) 
The word "steepers" refers to those who steep, or immerse, tea bags or loose tea leaves in hot water to make tea. In phonetic transcription, "steepers" is written as /ˈstiːpərz/, which includes the long vowel sound /iː/, the plosive consonant sound /p/, and the voiced fricative consonant sound /z/. The spelling of "steepers" is derived from the verb "steep," which means to soak something in water in order to soften or flavor it.
Steepers, as a noun, refers to individuals or groups who engage in the practice of steeping. Steeping, in turn, is the process of immersing a substance, typically tea leaves or other plant materials, in a liquid, typically hot water, in order to extract its flavor, aroma, or medicinal properties. Therefore, steepers can be interpreted as people who are actively involved in the preparation and consumption of steeped beverages, especially tea.
The term "steepers" can also be used in a broader sense to refer to enthusiasts or connoisseurs of steeped drinks, particularly tea enthusiasts who possess extensive knowledge about different varieties of tea, their origins, brewing techniques, and ritualistic practices associated with tea consumption. These individuals often appreciate the art and science behind steeping and may actively seek out rare or unique teas to further enhance their appreciation and understanding of the beverage.
In addition to tea, steepers can also extend to those who engage in the steeping of other botanicals, such as herbs or spices, for culinary purposes or alternative medicine. They may experiment with various infusion times and temperatures to achieve the desired strength and flavor profile of the resulting beverage.
Overall, steepers are individuals who have immersed themselves in the world of steeped beverages, displaying a deep interest and expertise in the preparation, history, and enjoyment of these beverages.
