cheddar

noun

ched·​dar ˈche-dər How to pronounce cheddar (audio)
variants often Cheddar
: a hard white, yellow, or orange smooth-textured cheese with a flavor that ranges from mild to strong as the cheese matures

called also cheddar cheese

Examples of cheddar in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Serve with rice and yogurt, or turn into tacos with grated cheddar. — Emma Laperruque, Bon Appetit Magazine, 29 June 2026 Like the grocer's original mild white queso, this spicy version begins with the same tasty white cheddar base. — Michele Laufik, Martha Stewart, 22 June 2026 Use pepper Jack in place of some Cheddar for more heat, or mild Cheddar for a less spicy version. — Kimberly Holland, Southern Living, 26 June 2026 In a large bowl combine the ground beef, egg, onion soup mix, bread crumbs, ketchup, mustard, Worcestershire sauce, and shredded cheddar cheese. — Sarah Martens, Better Homes & Gardens, 26 June 2026 See All Example Sentences for cheddar

Word History

Etymology

Cheddar, village in Somersetshire, England

First Known Use

1646, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of cheddar was in 1646

Rhymes for cheddar

See All Rhymes for cheddar

Browse Nearby Words

checky
cheddar
Cheddar pink
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Cheddar.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/cheddar. Accessed 7 Jul. 2026.

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Kids Definition

cheddar

noun
ched·​dar ˈched-ər How to pronounce cheddar (audio)
often capitalized
: a hard yellow or white cheese of smooth texture
Etymology

named for Cheddar, village in England where the cheese was first made

More from Merriam-Webster on cheddar

Nglish: Translation of cheddar for Spanish Speakers

Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about cheddar

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