General
fruit salad
What does fruit salad mean?
The multicolored array of service ribbons worn on the chest of a dress uniform, so called for its resemblance to a bowl of mixed fruit.
"The old colonel's got a whole rack of fruit salad on his chest."
Origin
US military slang.
Frequently asked questions
What does 'fruit salad' mean in the military?
It's the multicolored block of service ribbons worn on the chest of a dress uniform, nicknamed for looking like a bowl of mixed fruit.
Where does the term 'fruit salad' come from?
It's US military slang, based purely on the colorful appearance of a full rack of ribbons.
Is 'fruit salad' respectful?
It's lighthearted rather than disrespectful, though the tone can range from admiring to teasing depending on who's saying it.
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