Like a cat that’s got the cream

usgb
idiom

To look extremely pleased or smug, especially after achieving something.

She was grinning like a cat that's got the cream after she scored the highest in the test.
Visual representation of "like a cat that’s got the cream" - To look extremely pleased or smug, especially after achieving something.

Often appears as...

  • grinning like a cat that's got the cream
  • look like a cat that's got the cream

Usage tips

Colloquial

Definition 1 of 1
Visual representation of "like a cat that’s got the cream"
LampPro Tip 1/3

Satisfaction Shown

The phrase shows someone is visibly pleased, much like a cat would look after enjoying some cream.

Illustration for Satisfaction Shown
Winning the debate, he sat back like a cat that’s got the cream.
LampPro Tip 2/3

Not Literal

It's not about actual cats or cream; it's used metaphorically to describe a person's satisfied expression.

Illustration for Not Literal
After the promotion, Laura was like a cat that's got the cream.
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Informal Context

The phrase is informal, best used in casual conversations rather than formal writing or speeches.

Illustration for Informal Context
Look at him acting like a cat that’s got the cream, just because he won the game.
Visual representation of the word "Like a cat that’s got the cream"

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