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Like the cat that ate the canary
like the cat that ate the canary
01
used for saying that a person looks extremely satisfied, happy, or proud because of something they have done or achieved
What is the origin of the idiom "like the cat that ate the canary" and when to use it?
The phrase "like the cat that ate the canary" has its origin in English literature and dates back to the 19th century. The exact origin of the phrase is unclear, but it has been commonly used in various forms of writing, including novels, plays, and short stories.
Example
As he revealed his surprise party plans, he couldn't help but smile like the cat that ate the canary, knowing he had successfully kept it a secret.
She couldn't hide her delight, wearing a satisfied expression like the cat that ate the canary, having found the hidden treasure.
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