apple-pie order

Definition

A neat and tidy arrangement or organization; a perfect 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.

Example Sentences

• "And he was devoted to his books, which were in apple-pie order."
• "He was made welcome...and was able before retiring to rest to arrange his materials for work in apple-pie order upon a commodious table which occupied the outer end of the room..."
• "She had only just got her home into apple-pie order again; for the second time; first the earthquake, then the civil war."