What does ‘cream and cream’ mean?
In Peru and other South American countries, it is common to hear the expression ‘the cream of the crop’ to refer to the most select and sophisticated of a place. But how do you spell it correctly? Is it ‘cream of the crop’ or ‘innate cream’?
To understand the origin of this expression, we must analyze the process of cooling milk. When a quantity of milk is cooked and then cooled, a layer of fatty substance known as cream appears on its surface. It is from this explanation that we understand why the top of society is called ‘the cream of the crop’.
Although ‘cream’ and ‘cream’ might seem redundant, in this context, ‘cream’ refers to the important substance contained in milk, i.e. society as a whole. Meanwhile, at any given time, such as at celebrations or social events, the most renowned or famous among that society rise to the fore, similar to how cream rises to the surface of milk.
Definitions of ‘cream’ and ‘innate’
Next, I present the definitions of ‘cream’ and ‘innate’ according to the Royal Spanish Academy:
Crema
1. Fatty substance contained in milk.
2. Cream of milk.
3. Pastry cream.
4. Thick soup.
5. Sweet and quite thick liquor.
6. Cosmetic or medical product with a pasty consistency.
7. Unctuous paste to clean and shine tanned leather, especially footwear.
8. The most distinguished thing in any social group: ‘the cream’.
9. Said of a color: Light brown.
Innate
1. Connatural and as born with the same person.
Source: Royal Spanish Academy © All rights reserved
In short, ‘cream and cream’ is a metaphor used to describe the most distinguished and select of a social group. The cream represents the important substance and the cream symbolizes the most renowned people within that group. It is an expression that reflects excellence and distinction.
Remember that, by using these types of expressions in your everyday language, you will be enriching your communication and adding a touch of sophistication.
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