cordon bleu

[kawr-dawn blœ]

noun

plural

cordons bleus 

1. the sky-blue ribbon worn as a badge by knights of the highest order of French knighthood under the Bourbons.

2. some similar high distinction.

3. one entitled to wear the cordon bleu.

4. any person of great distinction in a specific field, especially a distinguished chef.

adjective

1. (of a dish made with thin slices of veal, chicken, etc.) interlaid or stuffed with ham and cheese and then sautéed.

   chicken cordon bleu.

cordon bleu

/ kɔrdɔ̃ blø /

noun

1. French history

   1. the sky-blue ribbon worn by members of the highest order of knighthood under the Bourbon monarchy

   2. a knight entitled to wear the cordon bleu

2. any very high distinction

adjective

1. of or denoting food prepared to a very high standard

Word History and Origins

Origin of cordon bleu¹

1720–30; < French: literally, blue ribbon

Word History and Origins

Origin of cordon bleu¹

French, literally: blue ribbon