be on cloud nine
Meaning
To feel extremely happy or delighted; to be in a state of euphoria.
Origin
The phrase is attested in the 20th century. One common explanation links it to older “cloud” metaphors for floating in happiness and to the U.S. Weather Bureau’s cloud classification, where “cloud nine” was associated with very high clouds, suggesting being “high up” with joy.
Notes
Common, informal-to-neutral. Used for strong happiness (often after good news, romance, success). Slightly hyperbolic but positive.
Examples
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After she got the job offer, she was on cloud nine all day.
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When I heard my song on the radio, I was on cloud nine.
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They were on cloud nine after winning the championship in overtime.
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He’s been on cloud nine since his daughter was born.
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I was on cloud nine when my best friend surprised me with tickets to the concert.
Grammar & Usage Notes
Usually used with the verb “be”: “I’m/She’s on cloud nine.” Tense changes with “be” (was/were). Often followed by “about/over” + noun/gerund (“on cloud nine about the promotion”). Sometimes written “Cloud Nine” as a set phrase.
Synonyms
- be over the moon
- be thrilled
- be on top of the world
- be in seventh heaven
Antonyms
- be miserable
- be down in the dumps
- be unhappy