pie in the sky

noun

1. pie ¹( def 8 ).

pie in the sky

1. A preposterously optimistic goal: “The candidate says we can balance the budget by next year, but I think that's pie in the sky.”

Word History and Origins

Origin of pie in the sky¹

An Americanism dating back to 1910–15

Idioms and Phrases

An empty wish or promise, as in His dream of being hired as a sports editor proved to be pie in the sky . This expression was first recorded in 1911 in a rallying song of a union, the International Workers of the World (or “Wobblies”): “Work and pray, live on hay, you'll get pie in the sky when you die.”

Example Sentences

I’m not in any way “pie in the sky” about these realities, but I also recognize and actually trust in a belief that sometimes good things happen in ways that feel predetermined and fateful.

From Los Angeles Times

It may sound silly or pie in the sky, but Assemblyman Anthony Rendon, who started the committee, thinks lawmakers should be seriously pursuing how to increase happiness for Californians.

From New York Times

“It was almost kind of a pie in the sky that he would be who he is,” Rivera said.

From Washington Times

It’s an open question whether Bluesky will soar or remain a pie in the sky.

From Seattle Times

“The technology’s not there. Common sense is what needs to prevail here, not pie in the sky dreaming,” Cousens said.

From Washington Times