Wordxplr

The meaning and origin of interesting English phrases

Over the moon

Meaning

Feeling extremely happy, delighted, or ecstatic about something.

Origin

The enchanting image of being 'over the moon' evokes a sense of boundless, almost gravity-defying joy. While the exact moment of its idiomatic birth is debated, the phrase is widely believed to have gained significant popularity and widespread use in the mid-20th century, particularly within British English. It likely draws its whimsical power from the enduring imagery of the classic English nursery rhyme 'Hey Diddle Diddle,' which famously features 'The cow jumped over the moon.' This fantastical leap perfectly encapsulated a state of happiness so immense and delightful that it literally transcends the ordinary, launching one into a realm of pure, unadulterated bliss.

Examples

  • She was over the moon when she heard the news of her acceptance into her dream university.
  • The whole family was over the moon after their favorite football team won the championship in the final minutes.
← All phrases