ENGLISH
REFERENCE

creme

n. uncountable
B2 Upper Intermediate US //ˈkɹim// UK //kɹˈiːm// creme

n. the best part of a group of people or things. It can also refer to a thick, smooth liquid like a cream used in cooking or skin care.

n. the elite or most desirable portion of a collective; alternatively, a thick liquid substance used in culinary or cosmetic contexts.


SIMPLE

This university only accepts the creme of the graduating class.

CONTEXTUAL

The chef finished the dessert with a light creme made from local vanilla beans and organic milk.

COMPLEX

The annual gala attracts the creme of the fashion world, bringing together the most influential designers and critics for a single evening of celebration.

Usage

Often used in the idiomatic French phrase 'creme de la creme' to signify the absolute best of something.

Pitfall

the cremes of the cropthe creme of the cropWhen referring to the best part of a group, the word is uncountable and should not be pluralized.

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