English Explanatory Dictionary

apple-pie order

English dictionary entry

Meanings

noun
  1. A neat and tidy arrangement or organization; a perfect order.

Word forms

apple-pie order

Etymology

Unknown. First recorded in 1780 in the sea journal of an Englishman. There are two mainstream theories as to its origin, although there is no evidence for either: * French cap-à-pied (“head to foot”) * French nappe pliée (“folded linen”) The proposed nappe pliée fits more closely with the date of first attestation.

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