tickled pink
Meaning
Extremely pleased, delighted, or flattered about something.
Origin
From the literal idea that being “tickled” makes you laugh and blush; “pink” refers to rosy cheeks. Recorded in American English by the early-to-mid 20th century and became widely used.
Notes
Informal, upbeat phrase meaning very happy or flattered. Suitable for conversation; can sound a bit playful or folksy in formal writing.
Examples
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She was tickled pink when she heard she got the promotion.
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The kids were tickled pink to learn their teacher baked cookies for the class.
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Grandma was tickled pink to receive a stack of birthday cards.
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He was tickled pink when he found out his idea was approved.
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That small compliment left me tickled pink all day.
Grammar & Usage Notes
Usually used with forms of “be”: “I’m/was tickled pink (about/by/that…)”. Can also modify a noun phrase: “tickled pink to hear…”. Fairly fixed; rarely altered.
Synonyms
- delighted
- thrilled
- over the moon
- pleased as punch
- chuffed
Antonyms
- unhappy
- disappointed
- upset
- indifferent