Cheddar, noun:
1. A type of cheese renowned for its distinct flavor and texture, typically pale yellow or orange in color, and originating from the village of Cheddar in Somerset, England. Cheddar cheese is commonly produced by the process of cheddaring, in which the curds are piled up, cut into blocks, and then turned and stacked again to drain the whey. It is typically matured for varying durations, resulting in different levels of sharpness and taste.
2. (Informal) A term used colloquially to refer to money or wealth. Originating from the British currency, this slang expression is derived from the association of cheddar cheese with being rich or well-off.
3. A small coastal town located in the Waitaki District of South Island, New Zealand. Cheddar is known for its picturesque landscapes, beautiful beaches, and limestone cliffs.
4. (Obsolete) In heraldry, an ermine fur that is represented by a white pattern with black spots, used in the design of coats of arms.
5. (Informal) In cooking, the process of cheddaring refers to the reduction, thickening, or concentration of a sauce or liquid by simmering it gently to evaporate excess moisture.
Overall, "cheddar" primarily refers to a type of cheese with distinct characteristics, originating from Cheddar, Somerset. However, the term has also been adopted in slang and place names to denote wealth, a beautiful town in New Zealand, an obsolete heraldic fur, and a cooking process.
