eat humble pie
Filed under E
In a sentence
- After boasting about their team's chances, they were forced to eat humble pie when they lost the match.
- She thought she knew everything about the topic, but she had to eat humble pie when her boss corrected her mistake in front of everyone.
- He used to belittle others' achievements, but now he is eating humble pie as he struggles to succeed in his own endeavors.
Where it comes from and how it is used
The idiom "eat humble pie" is related to several other idioms with similar meanings. One such idiom is "humble pie," which is directly connected to the origins of "eat humble pie." Another related idiom is "eat crow," and yet another is "eat it." Each of these idioms conveys the idea of being humbled, admitting one's mistakes, and showing humility. They are all used to describe situations in which a person is forced to lower their pride and face the consequences of their actions.
The term "humble pie" originated in medieval England, where pies were a common and popular dish. There was a specific type of pie known as a "umble pie," which was made from the internal organs and entrails of an animal. The term "umble" eventually evolved into "humble," and the pie became associated with simplicity and frugality. Eating humble pie was often a way for people of lower status to demonstrate their humility and adherence to social norms.
The idiom "eat humble pie" emerged over time, drawing upon the associations of the traditional humble pie and its connotations of humility. It became a metaphorical expression used to describe situations where a person had to admit their mistakes and show humility or remorse. The idiom emphasizes the person's humiliation or loss of status, highlighting the contrast between their former pride and their current humbled state.
The idiom "eat crow" is similar to "eat humble pie" in meaning. It also conveys the idea of being humiliated and admitting one's mistakes. The origin of this idiom is unclear, but it is thought to have originated in America in the 19th century. It is believed to have derived from the behavior of crows, which are known for being intelligent and cunning birds. Eating crow was considered a humbling experience, reflecting the shame and humility that comes with admitting one's errors.
The idiom "eat it" is another expression that shares a similar meaning to "eat humble pie" and "eat crow." It is often used informally to describe situations where a person has to accept the consequences of their actions or admit defeat. The phrase "eat it" is a shortened form of "eat your words," which originated in the early 19th century. The expression "eat your words" refers to the act of retracting something one has said and acknowledging that it was incorrect or inappropriate. It is a way of showing humility and recognizing one's own fallibility.
Neighbouring idioms
- humble pie
- eat crowEmotions & feelings
- eat it
- eat dirtTalk & communication
- hat in hand
- come clean
- get off one's high horse
- bow and scrape
Know an earlier use or a better origin story?Tell us.