English Idioms
Comprehensive resource for understanding and mastering English idioms
Icing on the cake
Meaning
The idiom "icing on the cake" means something that is an added bonus or a pleasant surprise, often making the original situation even better. It can also mean a small amount of something that makes a significant difference, like adding sugar to a dish. The phrase can be used in various ways depending on the context.
Usage
- I was thrilled when my boss gave me a promotion, but the icing on the cake was when he said I could work from home.
- I had an amazing time at the party, but the icing on the cake was when I won a gift basket.
- The new feature on my phone is great, but the icing on the cake is that it syncs with all my devices automatically.
- I loved the movie, but the icing on the cake was when the lead actress came out to greet us after the screening.
- It's a beautiful day in the city, and the icing on the cake is seeing the sun shining brightly through the clouds.
Roots and History
The idiom "icing on the cake" has been used for centuries and has evolved over time. The earliest known use of the phrase can be traced back to the 15th century in England, where it was used in a recipe book called "The Forme of Cokery." The phrase means adding sugar to frosting on top of a cake, which gave it a sweeter taste. Over time, the phrase has taken on a figurative meaning, where something additional or unexpected adds value or pleasure to an existing situation.
Synonyms in English
- Cherry on top
- Bonus
- Extra perk
- Gravy
- Toppings
Synonyms in other languages
- 糖果上面 (China) - "icing on the cake"
- gelatiere au poing (France) - "a scoop of ice cream"
- סירפון על החדשה (Hebrew) - "icing on the cake"
- 蔬菜饮料上面 (Japan) - "vegetables in broth"
- 콕스틸러를 위한 갈마의 소금 (Korea) - "a spoonful of sugar for cakes"