cat that ate the canary
A person who appears self-satisfied or smug, especially while concealing something mischievous, prohibited, or private.
Meaning adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.
“He looks like the cat that ate the canary after his prank.”
“She walked into the room with a smile like the cat that ate the canary, clearly hiding a secret.”
“With a look reminiscent of the cat that ate the canary, he sat silently, savoring the knowledge that his rival had finally been outmaneuvered.”
- 01
bell the cat
To undertake a dangerous action in the service of a group.
- 02
canary fit
A highly emotional state of distress, anger, etc.
- 03
canary in a coal mine
Something whose sensitivity to adverse conditions makes it a useful early indicator of such conditions; something which warns of the coming of a greater danger or trouble by a deterioration in its health or welfare.
- 04
cat and dog life
An unhappy married life marked by arguments and disagreements.
- 05
cat got someone's tongue
Why is someone not saying anything?
- 06
cat in the meal-tub
Something concealed; a hidden danger.
- 07
cat piss
Any beverage of low quality.
- 08
cat's cradle
Any complicated structure that appears to be without purpose.
Last updated August 10, 2026