Cream

Definition

Cream refers to the thick, fatty portion of milk that rises to the top when milk is left to stand, often used in cooking or as a base for sauces and desserts. It also denotes a type of cosmetic product or an off-white color.

Parts of Speech

• Noun
• Verb

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /kriːm/
• Respelling: krem

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /kriːm/
• Respelling: kreem

Etymology

The word "cream" originates from the Latin "crema," meaning "scum" or "froth," which transitioned through Old French as "creme." In English, it became associated with the fatty part of milk as well as smooth-textured cosmetic products.

Derivatives

• Creamy (adjective)
• Creaminess (noun)
• Creme (noun)
• Creme de la creme (phrase)
• Ice cream (noun)

Synonyms

• Froth
• Milkfat
• Emulsion

Antonyms

• None

Usage

The term "cream" is often used in culinary contexts to refer to the thick, rich part of milk. For example, "Add cream to the soup for a smoother texture." It is also applied in cosmetics for products with smooth, rich consistency, and as a verb meaning "to blend into a creamy texture."

Related Terms

• Dairy: Products derived from milk.
• Froth: A light, airy foam.
• Emulsion: A mixture of two unblendable substances, often used in food and cosmetics.

Detailed Definitions

Noun

• The rich, fatty part of milk that rises to the top: Describes the thick layer formed on milk after it has been left to stand.
  • Example: "She skimmed the cream off the milk to use in her coffee."
• A cosmetic product with a smooth, thick consistency: Refers to skincare products that have a creamy texture.
  • Example: "Apply a small amount of moisturizing cream on the skin."
• An off-white color: Describes a pale, soft shade often associated with the color of milk.
  • Example: "The walls were painted a soft cream color."

Verb

• To blend ingredients into a smooth consistency: Used in cooking to describe mixing ingredients until smooth.
  • Example: "Cream the butter and sugar until light and fluffy."
• To remove the best part of something: Describes selecting or skimming off the topmost or most desirable portion.
  • Example: "The company creamed off the most talented employees for the new project."