Walking on air

Meaning

The idiom "walking on air" is a figurative expression that means to be extremely happy or pleased about something. It is often used to describe a feeling of being unstoppable and invincible, as if one is floating or walking without any obstacles.

Usage

• After winning the championship, John felt like he was walking on air.
• The crowd cheered and applauded, making Michael feel like he was walking on air.
• When I found out that my favorite band was coming to town, I felt like I was walking on air.
• After getting promoted at work, Sarah felt like she was walking on air.
• The view from the top of the mountain made me feel like I was walking on air.

Roots and History

The origin of the idiom "walking on air" is unclear, but it has been in use since at least the 13th century. One theory suggests that the phrase comes from an old English legend about Saint Dunstan, who was said to have walked on air while hammering away at the devil's foot. Another theory suggests that the phrase comes from medieval paintings of saints and angels walking in the clouds. The idiom has since come to be used more generally to describe any feeling of euphoria or excitement.

Synonyms in English

• On top of the world
• As high as a kite
• Over the moon
• Elated
• Thrilled

Synonyms in other languages

• Spanish - En la luna (On the moon)
• French - Sur les nuvées (On the clouds)
• German - In den Wolken (In the clouds)
• Italian - In cielo (In heaven)
• Japanese - 天高い (High in the sky)

Similar Idioms

• last laugh

• heavy heart

• lose it