Honest to pete origin and meaning?

Answer 1

The phrase "honest to Pete" is an expression of sincerity or emphasis, often used to convey that someone is being truthful or serious. Its exact origin is unclear, but it likely stems from a playful substitution of "Pete" for "God" or "sake," reflecting a common practice of using colloquial or humorous references to avoid swearing. The phrase has been in use since the early 20th century, illustrating a cultural tendency to invoke a familiar name to reinforce honesty.