The best thing since sliced bread
The Best Thing Since Sliced Bread: An Idiom with a Rich History
The phrase “the best thing since sliced bread” is a popular idiom used to express that something is an excellent innovation or improvement. It suggests that the item or idea being discussed is so remarkable that it can be compared to the convenience and significance of sliced bread, which revolutionized the way people consumed bread. But where did this phrase originate, and how did it become a staple in the English language? This article delves into the history and evolution of this idiom.
The Invention of Sliced Bread
The concept of sliced bread can be traced back to the early 20th century. Before this innovation, bread was typically sold as whole loaves, requiring consumers to slice it themselves at home. This process was often cumbersome and time-consuming, leading to uneven slices and wasted bread. The breakthrough came in 1928 when Otto Frederick Rohwedder, an American inventor from Davenport, Iowa, developed the first bread-slicing machine.
Rohwedder’s machine not only sliced the bread but also wrapped it, preserving its freshness. The first commercially available pre-sliced bread was produced by the Chillicothe Baking Company of Chillicothe, Missouri, and was marketed as “Kraft’s Sliced Bread.” The product quickly gained popularity, as it offered convenience and ease for consumers. The phrase “the best thing since sliced bread” began to emerge shortly after this innovation, as people recognized the significance of this new convenience in their daily lives.
The Phrase Takes Shape
The earliest recorded use of the phrase “the best thing since sliced bread” dates back to the 1930s. It was initially used in advertisements and articles to highlight various products and innovations that were deemed revolutionary. The idiom became a way to emphasize the importance of new inventions, drawing a direct comparison to the convenience that sliced bread provided.
One of the earliest documented uses of the phrase appeared in a 1932 newspaper article in the New York Times, where it was used to describe a new type of bread. The phrase quickly gained traction and became a common expression in American English, often used in a humorous or exaggerated context to praise new products, technologies, or ideas.
Cultural Impact and Evolution
As the years went by, the phrase “the best thing since sliced bread” became ingrained in popular culture. It was used in various forms of media, including television shows, movies, and literature. The idiom’s catchy nature and relatable context made it a favorite among speakers and writers alike. It became a way to express enthusiasm for innovations in a lighthearted manner.
In the late 20th and early 21st centuries, the phrase continued to evolve. With the rise of the internet and social media, it found new life in online discussions and memes. People began using the idiom to describe everything from technological advancements, such as smartphones and social media platforms, to everyday conveniences like online shopping and food delivery services.
Modern Usage and Relevance
Today, “the best thing since sliced bread” remains a widely recognized idiom, often used to convey excitement about new products or ideas. It serves as a reminder of how far we’ve come in terms of convenience and innovation. The phrase is frequently employed in marketing and advertising to create a sense of urgency and excitement around new offerings.
Despite its lighthearted nature, the idiom also reflects a deeper cultural appreciation for innovation and progress. It highlights the human desire for improvement and the constant pursuit of making life easier and more enjoyable. As we continue to innovate and create, the phrase “the best thing since sliced bread” will likely endure, serving as a benchmark for measuring the significance of new ideas and inventions.
Conclusion
The phrase “the best thing since sliced bread” has a rich history rooted in the invention of sliced bread itself. From its origins in the 1920s to its modern-day usage, the idiom has become a beloved expression that captures the essence of innovation and convenience. As we look to the future, it will be interesting to see what new inventions will inspire the next generation of idioms and expressions.