answersLogoWhite

0

The metaphor is taken from the vaudeville physical comedyroutine (which continues today) of pieing : slapping a pie into the face of an "unsuspecting" member of the comedy team.

The term is used for a form of protest, often political, where an attempt is made to humiliate the target in response to some act or policy they are involved with. In some venues, the pie throwers may be arrested and jailed for assault and/or battery. While the act is not usually violent or injurious, many targets consider it a violation of their right to conduct their public affairs in a serious manner. Lawsuits have awarded considerable damages in some cases.

User Avatar

Wiki User

14y ago

What else can I help you with?