apple-pie

[ap-uhl-pahy]

adjective

1. pertaining to or embodying values perceived as traditionally American, or, more broadly, as unassailable.

   apple-pie virtues of individualism and hard work;

   an apple-pie issue that no politician could vote against.

Word History and Origins

Origin of apple-pie¹

First recorded in 1960–70

Example Sentences

Most of the yards along the way were dotted with bright yellow and blue “Yes on 8” lawn signs with an image of an apple-pie conventional family that looked like it was from the 1950s instead of the 21st century: mom, dad, son, daughter, the females wearing dresses.

Read more on Los Angeles Times

It could have raised funds it needed elsewhere, through traditional, home-spun, apple-pie American institutions like private equity behemoths.

Read more on Slate

But even now, the findings have a gentle, apple-pie allure.

Read more on Seattle Times

He’s a pleasingly inoffensive, nonthreateningly masculine, apple-pie type, but like so many all-American commodities, there’s more lurking in that designation.

Read more on New York Times

In a company-produced video, Mr. Mintz touted the various products his kitchens made, from cream cheese to ravioli to apple-pie pizza and, of course, Tofutti ice cream.

Read more on Washington Post

Related Words

• exquisite 
• immaculate 
• precise 
• unblemished