Flat as a pancake

Meaning

Completely flat.

Usage

Describes surfaces, land, or sometimes comic effects.

Origin & History

Origins and dates here are approximate summaries. Many idioms have disputed or unknown origins, and not every date has been checked against a historical dictionary, so treat specific dates and stories as a starting point rather than a citation.

Pancakes are thin and level, so the comparison highlights flatness.

Recorded in English since the 17th century.