Was Walking On A Cloud: Definition, Meaning and Origin

Last Updated on
June 17, 2023

When someone says they "was walking on a cloud," it expresses a feeling of extreme joy, delight, or a state of dreamlike happiness. This phrase could describe someone who is so deeply happy that they feel almost weightless as if they were floating or walking on a cloud. The idiom underscores the depth of happiness or contentment that can make reality seem surreal, almost like a dreamy or ethereal state.

In short:

"Walking on a cloud" refers to experiencing extreme joy or happiness.

What Does "Was Walking On A Cloud" Mean?

The idiom "was walking on a cloud" is an expressive way to convey a feeling of extreme happiness or joy. Often, it's used when the happiness experienced is so intense that it feels almost unreal or dreamlike.

  • Typically signifies feelings of great joy, delight, or happiness.
  • It may be used to describe feeling in a dreamlike or surreal state due to happiness.
  • Expresses a sense of lightness or weightlessness associated with joy.

Where Does "Was Walking On A Cloud" Come From?

The idiomatic phrase "was walking on a cloud" is believed to originate from the ethereal and dreamlike image of clouds. Like many others, this idiom derives its power from vivid imagery and emotional resonance. The idiom "was walking on a cloud" is one of the many phrases in English that use metaphors and figurative language to convey a particular state of being. While it's difficult to pinpoint the first usage of the exact phrase "was walking on a cloud," associating positive emotions with 'being high or elevated' can be seen in several idiomatic expressions and phrases in English.

Historical Example

"...I felt as if I were walking on a cloud, so deeply happy that nothing else mattered..."

- Extract from a letter by Violet Jessop, a survivor of the Titanic sinking, 1912.

10 Examples of "Was Walking On A Cloud" in Sentences

Here are some examples of how this idiom can be used in different contexts:

  • After receiving a promotion at work, Jane felt like she was walking on a cloud. Still, when her colleagues started treating her differently, she realized that the tables had turned.
  • He was walking on a cloud all day when he got the job offer.
  • Winning the lottery made them feel like they were walking on a cloud.
  • She was walking on a cloud after her graduation.
  • With the birth of their child, they felt like they were walking on a cloud.
  • After securing his dream job, John was walking on a cloud, and as he ventured into this new journey, he whispered to himself, I hope all goes well.
  • He felt like he was walking on a cloud during his first day at the new company.
  • I just heard back from the hiring manager, and I was walking on a cloud after the great news, but I needed to close the loop by sending a thank-you email.
  • She was walking on a cloud after receiving her acceptance letter from the university.
  • After securing his dream job at the design firm, he was walking on a cloud, a role that absolutely suited him for his extraordinary creativity and impeccable sense of style.

Examples of "Was Walking On A Cloud" in Pop Culture

The idiom has also found its place in popular culture:

  • In the song 'Walking on Clouds' by Tiësto, the lyrics suggest a state of walking on a cloud.
  • The film 'La La Land' has a scene where the characters feel like they are walking on a cloud during their dance sequence in the sky.
  • In the TV series 'Friends', Ross says he is walking on a cloud after his first date with Rachel.
  • In the Disney movie 'Aladdin', Aladdin feels like he is walking on a cloud after meeting Jasmine.
  • The book 'Eleanor & Park' by Rainbow Rowell has a scene where Eleanor feels like she is walking on a cloud.
  • In the song 'Clouds' by Before You Exit, the lyrics imply a feeling of walking on a cloud.
  • In the TV show 'The Office', Pam says she is walking on a cloud after Jim proposes.
  • In the movie 'The Fault in Our Stars', Hazel feels like she is walking on a cloud after falling in love with Gus.

Other Ways to Say "Was Walking On A Cloud"

Several alternative expressions convey a similar meaning to "was walking on a cloud."

Some of these include:

  • She felt like she was floating on air.
  • He was on cloud nine after receiving the promotion.
  • They felt as though they were on top of the world.
  • She felt like she was dancing on air.
  • He felt like he was soaring high after his success.
  • They felt as if they were basking in the sunshine.
  • She felt like she was over the moon with joy.
  • He felt like he had the world at his feet after his achievement.
  • They felt like they were in seventh heaven.
  • He was riding high after the deal went through.

10 Frequently Asked Questions About "Was Walking On A Cloud":

  • What does it mean to be "walking on a cloud?"

It means experiencing extreme happiness or elation.

  • Is "walking on a cloud" a common phrase?

Yes, it is a well-known idiom used to express deep happiness or joy.

  • What is the origin of the idiom "walking on a cloud?"

The origin isn't explicitly known but it's believed to come from the ethereal imagery of clouds.

  • Can "walking on a cloud" have negative connotations?

No, it's generally used to depict a positive feeling of extreme happiness or joy.

  • Is the phrase "walking on a cloud" used in specific regions or cultures?

While it might be more prevalent in certain cultures, its usage is fairly universal across English-speaking regions.

  • Can "walking on a cloud" refer to a temporary state?

Yes, this idiom often describes a momentary or fleeting feeling of intense happiness or joy.

  • Can "walking on a cloud" be used in formal writing?

While idioms like this one can be used in formal writing, it's best to use them sparingly to maintain a more formal tone.

  • Is there a specific context where "walking on a cloud" is most appropriate?

It can be used in a variety of contexts but is typically used when describing personal feelings or reactions to positive events.

  • Are there any synonyms for "walking on a cloud"?

Yes, similar phrases might include "floating on air," "on cloud nine," or "feeling on top of the world."

  • Can "walking on a cloud" be used to describe someone else's feelings?

Yes, this idiom can be used to describe one's own feelings or to speculate about the feelings of others.

Final Thoughts About "Was Walking On A Cloud"

Idioms like "was walking on a cloud" significantly enhance our ability to express complex emotions and experiences in a vivid, relatable way.

  • The idiom "was walking on a cloud" metaphorically depicts a state of intense joy, delight, or elation.
  • While the exact origin isn't known, the idiom likely draws from common cultural associations of clouds with freedom, aspiration, and a higher perspective.
  • Despite its metaphorical nature, the idiom is widely understood across various English-speaking cultures and regions, highlighting its relevance and versatility in everyday language.
  • Finally, "Was Walking on a Cloud" is just one of the numerous idioms that leverage the evocative power of imagery to capture the richness and complexity of human emotion. Idioms like this not only enrich our language but also enable us to share and connect over shared experiences and feelings.

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