English Reference
noun

caesar

n.
US /ˈsizɝ/ UK /sˈiːzɐ/ cae·sar UK spelling caesars

  1. 01 B2 Upper Intermediate

    a title used by the emperors of ancient Rome.

    a title of the Roman emperors, derived from the cognomen of Julius Caesar.

    Simple

    The historian explained how each Caesar maintained power over the vast empire.

    In context

    The transition of power from one Caesar to the next often depended more on military loyalty than on hereditary right.

  2. 02 B1 Intermediate Informal Cooking

    a popular salad made with romaine lettuce, croutons, and a dressing with lemon and garlic.

    a specific type of salad typically consisting of romaine lettuce and croutons served with a dressing of lemon juice, olive oil, egg, and anchovies.

    Simple

    I think I will just have a chicken Caesar for lunch today.

    In context

    The restaurant's signature Caesar is prepared tableside, ensuring the croutons remain crisp and the dressing is perfectly emulsified.

  3. 03 C1 Advanced InformalTechnical Medicine

    a short way of saying 'Caesarean section', which is an operation to deliver a baby.

    a common clipping of Caesarean section; a surgical procedure used to deliver a baby through incisions in the abdomen and uterus.

    Simple

    The doctor decided to perform an emergency Caesar because the baby was in distress.

    In context

    Post-operative recovery for a Caesar typically requires a longer hospital stay compared to a vaginal delivery.

    Usage

    Commonly used by medical professionals in casual speech or by patients.

    c section
  4. 04 C2 Proficiency DialectAmerican English

    a Canadian drink made with vodka, tomato juice, clam broth, and spices.

    a cocktail popular in Canada, similar to a Bloody Mary but made with clamato juice instead of plain tomato juice.

    Simple

    He ordered a spicy Caesar with extra celery at the bar in Toronto.

    In context

    The Caesar is often considered Canada's national cocktail, distinguished by its savory profile and elaborate garnishes like pickled beans or bacon.

    Teacher's tip

    This sense is specific to Canada; in other countries, people might not know what this drink is.

    bloody caesar

From Latin Caesar. Displaced Old English cāsere, which would have yielded caser, coser, and Middle English keiser, kaiser, from Old Norse and continental Germanic languages. All ultimately from the same Latin root. (See also Kaiser and tsar.)

Etymology adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.

This entry
Origin Latin Caesar
Level C1 · Advanced
Frequency Frequent
Updated