English Reference
noun · adjective

cadillac

n. · adj.
US /ˈkædəˌɫæk/ cadil·lac

  1. 01 B2 Upper Intermediate American English

    n.a well-known brand of luxury car from the United States.

    n.a specific marque of luxury vehicle manufactured by General Motors.

    Simple

    He saved his money for years to finally buy a classic Cadillac.

    In context

    The diplomat arrived in a black Cadillac, the chrome accents gleaming under the streetlights of the embassy driveway.

    Usage

    Often used as a countable noun to refer to a specific vehicle produced by the brand.

  2. 02 C1 Advanced American EnglishInformal

    adj.used to describe something that is the highest quality or most expensive in its group.

    adj.denoting a product or service that represents the pinnacle of luxury or quality within its specific class.

    Simple

    This new espresso machine is the Cadillac of coffee makers.

    In context

    Critics often refer to this software suite as the Cadillac of enterprise solutions due to its comprehensive features and high price point.

    Usage

    Typically used in the construction 'the Cadillac of [category]'.

    Teacher's tip

    This is a common American idiom; even if the student doesn't know the car, they should recognize it as a metaphor for 'the best'.

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This entry
Level B2 · Upper Intermediate
Frequency Frequent
Updated