The phrase "fingered in the pie" is spelled with the IPA phonetic transcription /ˈfɪŋɡərɪd ɪn ðə paɪ/. It means someone who has meddled and interfered in something that was not their business. The word "fingered" is spelled with a "g" in the middle, not "fingerred", as it is pronounced with a hard "g" sound followed by an "əd" sound. The word "pie" is spelled with an "ie" instead of a "y" because it is pronounced with a long "i" sound followed by an "ə" sound.
The phrase "fingered in the pie" is an idiomatic expression with a rather specific meaning. This figurative phrase refers to someone who has been caught or discovered participating in a task or situation where they are not supposed to be involved, particularly in a secretive or inappropriate manner.
The term has its origin in the act of baking pies, as traditionally, when a pie is being prepared, it is imperative to prevent anyone from tasting or touching the pie crust until it is fully baked and ready to be served. Consequently, the phrase "fingered in the pie" metaphorically embodies the act of meddling or interfering with something that is not one's responsibility or concern.
Moreover, this expression can also imply an element of stealth or deceit, as if the person who got "fingered in the pie" was trying to cover up or conceal their involvement in the matter. In this context, it suggests an individual who is engaging in secretive or illicit activities, akin to a person catching someone stealing a taste of the pie before its intended time.
Overall, "fingered in the pie" denotes a situation where someone has been discovered misappropriating or meddling in something that they should not be involved in, inferring a sense of mischievousness, indiscretion, or unauthorized intrusion.