A final, perfect addition that completes or crowns an already excellent situation; the ultimate finishing touch that makes something ideal.
This phrase comes from the tradition of placing a maraschino cherry atop ice cream sundaes and other desserts, a practice that became popular in American soda fountains in the early-to-mid 20th century. The cherry became symbolic of the perfect final touch that completed the dessert experience.
The cherry on top represents something psychologically powerful - the human love of completion and perfection. The phrase taps into our aesthetic appreciation for the 'just right' moment when everything comes together perfectly. Interestingly, the maraschino cherry itself is entirely artificial, yet it became the symbol of natural perfection in American culture.
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