American cheese

American  

noun

1. a type of processed cheddar-style cheese made in the U.S.

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American cheese British  

noun

1. a type of smooth hard white or yellow cheese similar to a mild Cheddar

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Etymology

Origin of American cheese

An Americanism dating back to 1795–1805

Example Sentences

The crunch of the iceberg lettuce and the familiar taste of sliced American cheese reminded me of the Old El Paso brand taco kits my mom used to serve in the ’80s—about 7,000 miles away.

From The Wall Street Journal • Oct. 25, 2025

But it also taught me that sometimes you just want the cream and spread of a classic American cheese slice.

From Salon • Jul. 6, 2025

American cheese shines as the creamy base for homemade macaroni and cheese or game-day queso, dotted with spicy beef or chorizo.

From Salon • Jul. 6, 2025

The squishy Amoroso’s roll is packed with finely shaved Black Angus beef, fried onions and melted American cheese — though mushrooms and halal chicken are also available as fillings.

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 15, 2025

The setup tray was just lettuce, tomato, onions, American cheese, Swiss cheese, and pickles.

From "When You Reach Me" by Rebecca Stead