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REFERENCE

greatest thing since sliced bread

idiom
Meaning

Something amazing, outstanding or praiseworthy, especially a relatively recent invention likely to improve people's lives.


Origin

first recorded 20th c.

Adapted from the advertising slogan used in 1928 by the Chillicothe Baking Company (the first company to sell sliced bread), which was as follows: The greatest forward step in the baking industry since bread was wrapped.

Examples
SIMPLE

He thinks his new phone is the greatest thing since sliced bread.

CONTEXTUAL

Everyone says the new software update is the greatest thing since sliced bread because it saves so much time.

COMPLEX

While some critics remained skeptical, the inventor insisted that his revolutionary energy-saving device was the greatest thing since sliced bread.

Anchors to
Related idioms8entries
  1. 01

    a little bit of bread and no cheese

    Used to represent the song of the yellowhammer (Emberiza citrinella).

  2. 02

    be a thing

    To exist, or to be available, widespread, possible, or a common practice.

  3. 03

    best thing since sliced bread

    Alternative form of greatest thing since sliced bread.

  4. 04

    best thing since sliced pan

    Alternative form of greatest thing since sliced bread.

  5. 05

    bread and butter

    That which is central or fundamental, as to one's business, survival, or income; a staple or cornerstone.

  6. 06

    bread and circuses

    Food and entertainment provided by the state, particularly if intended to placate the people.

  7. 07

    bread of life

    Anything which is regarded as a source or inspiration of spiritual nourishment.

  8. 08

    bright young thing

    One who is youthful, clever, eager, and high-spirited in manner and attractive in appearance.

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