cordon blue

Definition

1. Noun:
   • A person of high rank or great importance: "cordon blue" refers to an individual of distinguished social standing, often used in a slightly humorous or ironic way.
   • A highly skilled chef: In culinary contexts, "cordon blue" denotes an exceptional cook, especially one trained at the prestigious Le Cordon Bleu school or possessing comparable expertise.

Usage Examples

• Noun:
  • The party was attended by several cordons bleus from the local aristocracy. (Important, high-ranking people.)
  • She is a real cordon bleu; her soufflés are perfect every time. (An exceptionally skilled chef.)

Advanced Usage

• The phrase "cordon bleu" (often spelled as two words in English) can also refer to a specific dish: veal or chicken cutlet stuffed with ham and cheese, then breaded and fried. However, this is a specialized culinary term derived from the original meaning.
  • For dinner, we ordered chicken cordon bleu. (A stuffed and breaded chicken dish.)

Variants and Related Words

• Cordon bleu (alternate spelling): The more common spelling in English for both the person and the dish.
  • He earned his cordon bleu certification last year. (A diploma from Le Cordon Bleu cooking school.)

Synonyms

• Bigwig: an important person in a particular sphere.
• Grandee: a person of high social rank or eminence.
• Master chef: a highly accomplished cook.

Related Idioms

• Cordon bleu chef: a chef of the highest skill level.
  • The restaurant hired a cordon bleu chef to revamp the menu. (A top-tier culinary expert.)

Note: "Cordon blue" is a variant spelling of the French phrase "cordon bleu," meaning "blue ribbon." Historically, it referred to the blue ribbon worn by members of the highest order of French knighthood, hence the associations with prestige and excellence.