Looking to add a splash of joy to your conversations? This collection of 13 happiness idioms is just what you need!
From feeling “on cloud nine” to being “happy as Larry,” these idioms capture the essence of delight and satisfaction.
Each expression is paired with engaging explanations and practical examples to help you effortlessly incorporate them into your daily life.
Perfect for anyone wanting to brighten their language with a touch of cheer.
Dive in and let these idioms bring a smile to your face!
1. Walk on air
Ever felt so happy that you felt like you were floating? That’s what “walk on air” is all about. It describes a state of extreme happiness and elation, as if your joy is lifting you off the ground.
This idiom likely comes from the sensation of lightness one feels when exceptionally happy, almost as if gravity has lessened its pull.
Using “walk on air” in conversation can vividly convey just how happy someone is.
Example 1: “She’s been walking on air since she got the promotion.”
Example 2: “After hearing the good news, he was walking on air all day.”
2. Tickled pink
When something makes you very pleased or amused, you might say you’re “tickled pink.” It’s a colorful way to express great delight and happiness.
The phrase probably comes from the idea that being tickled can make you blush or turn pink from laughing.
Using “tickled pink” adds a playful touch to your expression of joy.
Example 1: “She was tickled pink with her surprise birthday party.”
Example 2: “He was tickled pink by the compliment on his work.”
3. Over the moon
Have you ever felt so happy that you felt like you could fly to the moon? That’s what “over the moon” captures. It describes a state of being extremely happy or pleased.
This idiom originates from nursery rhymes, where exaggerated imagery was used to express joy.
“Over the moon” vividly conveys someone’s excitement or satisfaction.
Example 1: “They were over the moon about their new house.”
Example 2: “I was over the moon when I found out I got the jo
4. On top of the world
Feeling unbeatable and incredibly happy? You’re “on top of the world.” This idiom describes a state of supreme happiness and confidence.
The imagery suggests being at the highest point possible, looking down with satisfaction.
Using “on top of the world” highlights someone’s immense joy and success.
Example 1: “After winning the championship, he felt on top of the world.”
Example 2: “She’s been on top of the world since her engagement.”
5. On cloud nine
Being “on cloud nine” means you’re extremely happy and blissful. It’s as if you’re floating high above the ground on a soft, fluffy cloud.
The origin is unclear but might relate to the US Weather Bureau’s classification of clouds, with the ninth type being the most fluffy and high.
“On cloud nine” is perfect for expressing euphoric happiness.
Example 1: “She’s been on cloud nine ever since she got the promotion.”
Example 2: “After their wedding, the couple felt on cloud nine.”
6. Have a whale of a time
When you’re having an exceptionally good time, you might say you’re having a “whale of a time.” It’s a fun way to express that you’re enjoying yourself immensely.
The idiom uses the image of a large whale to emphasize the magnitude of the fun.
Using “whale of a time” can convey just how much fun someone is having.
Example 1: “They had a whale of a time at the amusement park.”
Example 2: “We had a whale of a time on our vacation.”
7. In seventh heaven
When someone is “in seventh heaven,” they’re experiencing extreme happiness and bliss, as if they’re in a state of perfect contentment.
The phrase comes from ancient religious cosmology, where the seventh heaven is the highest and most blissful.
“In seventh heaven” beautifully conveys a state of perfect happiness.
Example 1: “She was in seventh heaven when she held her newborn baby.”
Example 2: “Winning the lottery put him in seventh heaven.”
8. Have the time of your life
When you’re having the best experience ever, you’re “having the time of your life.” It means you’re enjoying yourself to the fullest.
The phrase emphasizes living in the moment and making the most of an experience.
“Have the time of your life” is ideal for describing unforgettable moments.
Example 1: “They had the time of their lives on their trip to Europe.”
Example 2: “He had the time of his life at the concert.”
9. Happy as Larry
Being “happy as Larry” means you’re extremely happy and content. It’s a cheerful way to describe someone who’s very pleased with their situation.
The origin is uncertain, but it might refer to a famous Australian boxer, Larry Foley, known for his cheerful disposition.
Using “happy as Larry” adds a touch of whimsy to expressing happiness.
Example 1: “She’s happy as Larry with her new puppy.”
Example 2: “After retiring, he’s been as happy as Larry.”
10. In one’s element
When you’re “in your element,” you’re in a situation where you feel perfectly comfortable and happy, doing what you love best.
The phrase suggests being in the perfect environment for one’s skills or interests.
“In one’s element” highlights someone’s contentment and suitability in a particular situation.
Example 1: “She’s in her element when she’s painting.”
Example 2: “He’s in his element on the basketball court.”
11. Thrilled to pieces
When you’re “thrilled to pieces,” you’re extremely happy and excited, as if you’re so happy you could burst.
The idiom conveys intense excitement and joy.
“Thrilled to pieces” is great for expressing overwhelming happiness.
Example 1: “He was thrilled to pieces with his new car.”
Example 2: “She was thrilled to pieces when she heard the news.”
12. Get a kick out of something
If you “get a kick out of something,” you find it very enjoyable or amusing. It’s a playful way to express that something gives you great pleasure.
The phrase likely comes from the burst of energy or excitement, like a physical kick.
Using “get a kick out of something” adds fun to describing enjoyment.
Example 1: “He gets a kick out of watching old movies.”
Example 2: “She gets a kick out of playing with her dog.”
13. Jump for joy
When you’re so happy that you physically express it, you might “jump for joy.” It means you’re elated and can’t contain your happiness.
The idiom vividly captures the image of someone leaping with happiness.
“Jump for joy” is perfect for describing moments of pure elation.
Example 1: “They jumped for joy when they heard they were having a baby.”
Example 2: “He jumped for joy after winning the competition.”
Hey fellow Linguaholics! It’s me, Marcel. I am the proud owner of linguaholic.com. Languages have always been my passion and I have studied Linguistics, Computational Linguistics and Sinology at the University of Zurich. It is my utmost pleasure to share with all of you guys what I know about languages and linguistics in general.