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What does it mean if something takes the cake?

What does it mean if something takes the cake?

Definition of take the cake informal. : to win the prize : to rank first While it didn’t take the cake for the warmest Christmas on record, it was close.— Krista McEnany —typically used to describe something that is very surprising, foolish, remarkable, annoying, etc.

Where does the expression that takes the cake come from?

The term take the cake is derived from the cakewalk. A cakewalk was a competitive dance performed by black slaves which mocked the over-refined manners that plantation owners employed at their formal balls. The winner or winning couple of these competitions was awarded a cake.

Is take the cake slang?

Originally, to take the cake meant to win a prize or a competition — people as far back as the ancient Greeks used the word cake to mean “a symbolic prize.” Over time, it grew to have a more negative, sarcastic meaning in English: “I can’t believe this mess.

Which two meanings best describe the phrase takes the cake?

That takes the cake/biscuit! Meaning: An outrageous example of something bad. Alternatively: That is too much; That does it! Example: Stealing your own child’s Halloween sweets really takes the cake!

How do you use takes the cake in a sentence?

to be especially annoying, surprising, etc. or to be the worst or best of its kind: And you say she’s opening your letters now? Oh, that takes the cake! All of the reviews were bad, but hers took the cake.

What does take the crown mean?

To triumph or achieve victory in. win.

What does it mean to take a plunge?

informal. : to do or undertake something especially after a period of hesitation or uncertainty Up to now, I’ve avoided growing roses … . But last winter the ripe catalogue shots of roses took hold in my imagination, and I decided to take the plunge.—

What is to coin a phrase?

humorous. something you say before using an expression that has been very popular or used too much: I was, to coin a phrase, gobsmacked! SMART Vocabulary: related words and phrases.

What does kiss the Crown mean?

If you associate hand kisses with The Crown more than your own dating life, you’re not alone. These, when combined with a bow, are often seen as a sign of respect for diplomats or members of royalty.

What is to keep an eagle eye?

Definition of keep an eagle eye on : to watch (someone or something) very closely The guard kept an eagle eye on the prisoner.

What does take a leap mean?

To go for something- to take a one’s chances on something.

What is the meaning of the idiom No dice?

No, certainly not; also, impossible. For example, Anthony wanted to borrow my new coat, but Mom said no dice, or We tried to rent the church for the wedding, but it’s no go for the date you picked, or Jim asked Dad to help pay for the repairs, but Dad said no soap.