A core principle, value, belief, characteristic, aspect, etc., of the United States of America or its citizens. Sometimes used sarcastically or ironically. If you've ever wondered what it means to be an American, just look at Bob Fisk down the street—he's about as mom and apple pie as it gets. It doesn't surprise me at all that their tax overhaul would turn out this complex—after all, convoluted taxes are as American as mom and apple pie.