On cloud nine
/ɒn klaʊd naɪn/informalUK · US
What does “On cloud nine” mean?
On cloud nine means extremely happy, often after good news
Someone on cloud nine is enjoying a moment of real happiness. They might have fallen in love, won a place at university or received excellent news.
It describes their mood, not whether they are paying attention. Unlike being “in the clouds,” it does not usually suggest absent-mindedness.
When do people say it?
Use it for someone's delighted mood after a success, a romantic moment or other welcome news.
“Ravi has been on cloud nine since he passed his driving test.”
Is it formal or informal?
Register: informal. It is most at home in everyday conversation rather than formal writing. Most common in UK and US.
Where does it come from?
The phrase pictures happiness as being high in the clouds. Explanations for the number nine vary, and its exact origin is uncertain.
Origin confidence: Disputed; treat with caution
How do you say “On cloud nine” in other languages?
Related idioms
- Over the moon, Extremely happy about something
Last updated 2026-09-19