cream

[kriːm]

cream Definition

  • 1the thick white or pale yellow fatty liquid that rises to the top when milk is left to stand and that can be eaten as it is or whipped, churned into butter, or processed into various products
  • 2a thick, soft, and smooth substance that is spread on or used as a filling for cakes, cookies, and other desserts
  • 3the best part of something

Using cream: Examples

Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "cream" can be used in various situations through the following examples!

  • Example

    I like to put cream in my coffee.

  • Example

    She made a cake with cream filling.

  • Example

    The cream of the crop always rises to the top.

cream Synonyms and Antonyms

Synonyms for cream

  • whipped cream
  • clotted cream
  • double cream
  • heavy cream
  • light cream

Antonyms for cream

  • skim milk
  • low-fat milk

Phrases with cream

  • the best of a particular group or type

    Example

    The company only hires the cream of the crop.

  • to beat someone by a large margin

    Example

    The home team creamed their opponents 10-0.

  • to become successful or prominent due to one's abilities or qualities

    Example

    With hard work and dedication, she rose to the top like cream.

Origins of cream

from Old English 'crēam', from Proto-Germanic 'krēmō' meaning 'frost, cream'

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Summary: cream in Brief

The term 'cream' [kriːm] refers to a thick, fatty liquid that rises to the top of milk, which can be eaten as is or used in various products. It also refers to a soft and smooth substance used as a filling for desserts. The phrase 'cream of the crop' denotes the best of a particular group, while 'to cream someone' means to beat them by a large margin. 'To rise to the top like cream' means to become successful or prominent due to one's abilities or qualities.

How do native speakers use this expression?