the cat’s whiskers
Meaning
Someone or something regarded as outstanding, admirable, or the very best.
Origin
Early 1900s British slang meaning “the height of excellence,” formed like other playful animal-body-part superlatives (e.g., “the bee’s knees”). Popular in the 1920s.
Notes
A compliment meaning “top-notch,” but it can sound old-fashioned today. Depending on tone, it may be used ironically to mock someone’s self-importance.
Examples
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He thinks he’s the cat’s whiskers since he got the promotion.
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Ever since she bought that new phone, she’s been acting like the cat’s whiskers.
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He walked into the party like he was the cat’s whiskers.
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The restaurant’s new chef thinks he’s the cat’s whiskers in the kitchen.
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After winning the award, he felt like the cat’s whiskers for a while.
Grammar & Usage Notes
Typically used with “be”: “X is the cat’s whiskers.” Fixed phrase; usually with “the,” and commonly appears as a noun phrase. Can also be used ironically in context.
Synonyms
- the bee’s knees
- the cat’s pajamas
- top-notch
- the best thing since sliced bread
Antonyms
- mediocre
- nothing special
- second-rate