The Archive

Etymology Journal · S

Sweet as pie

Meaning

Very similar to sweet as a peach, this refers to someone who is exceptionally kind or a situation that is very pleasant. It implies an uncomplicated and delightful nature.

Warm, wholesome

Used in a sentence

  • The hotel manager was sweet as pie about our late check-in.
  • She acts tough, but deep down she is sweet as pie.
  • That little toddler was sweet as pie during the whole church service.

The backstory

Likely stems from the cultural association of baked goods with love and comfort. It has been a staple of American English since the 19th century.

Heard in

Nationwide

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