Be in the catbird seat
phrase
To be in a position of advantage or control.
As the team with the highest score, they are in the catbird seat.
Often appears as...
- sitting in the catbird seat
- being in the catbird seat
Usage tips
Informal
Idiomatic
phrase
To be in a position of advantage or control.
As the team with the highest score, they are in the catbird seat.
Often appears as...
- sitting in the catbird seat
- being in the catbird seat
Usage tips
Informal
Idiomatic
Definition 1 of 1
Pro Tip 1/3Origin Story
Knowing the phrase's origin may help remember it comes from catbirds' habit of perching at high points to sing.
Understanding that the catbird likes to be high up helps me remember the meaning of 'be in the catbird seat'.
Pro Tip 2/3Power Dynamics
This phrase is often used in discussions where one person or group has a clear advantage over others.
Given their strong market share, they're in the catbird seat during the negotiations.
Pro Tip 3/3Confidence Implication
Using this phrase may imply confidence in the advantageous position described.
After solving the critical issue, our team is now in the catbird seat.
Pro Tip 1/3Origin Story
Knowing the phrase's origin may help remember it comes from catbirds' habit of perching at high points to sing.
Understanding that the catbird likes to be high up helps me remember the meaning of 'be in the catbird seat'.
Pro Tip 2/3Power Dynamics
This phrase is often used in discussions where one person or group has a clear advantage over others.
Given their strong market share, they're in the catbird seat during the negotiations.
Pro Tip 3/3Confidence Implication
Using this phrase may imply confidence in the advantageous position described.
After solving the critical issue, our team is now in the catbird seat.
Pro Tip 1/3Origin Story
Knowing the phrase's origin may help remember it comes from catbirds' habit of perching at high points to sing.
Understanding that the catbird likes to be high up helps me remember the meaning of 'be in the catbird seat'.
Pro Tip 2/3Power Dynamics
This phrase is often used in discussions where one person or group has a clear advantage over others.
Given their strong market share, they're in the catbird seat during the negotiations.
Pro Tip 3/3Confidence Implication
Using this phrase may imply confidence in the advantageous position described.
After solving the critical issue, our team is now in the catbird seat.
Never forget "Be in the catbird seat"
Humans forget easily. That's why you should download WordUp: Smart reminders, word games, AI practice, and much more!
WordUp Chrome Extension
As you browse the web instantly look up words you don’t know.
Get Chrome Extension