What does the idiom she was walking on air?

As an expert in linguistics and cultural expressions, I am delighted to delve into the nuances of idioms, which are a fascinating aspect of language that often encapsulate a culture's collective wisdom and humor in a single phrase. The idiom "walking on air" is one such expression that is rich in imagery and emotion. When someone is said to be "walking on air," it implies that the person is experiencing a state of extreme happiness or elation. This idiom is often used to describe the feeling one gets after a significant positive event, such as achieving a long-sought goal, receiving good news, or experiencing a personal triumph. The phrase paints a vivid picture of someone so light-hearted that they seem to be floating or walking effortlessly, as if they were walking on air rather than on the ground. The origin of this idiom can be traced back to the idea that when people are happy, they tend to feel lighter, almost as if they could defy gravity. It's a metaphor that has been used in various forms across different cultures and languages. The expression has been popularized in English-speaking cultures and is often used in both spoken and written communication to convey a sense of joy and satisfaction. It is interesting to note that there are similar idioms in other languages that convey a similar sentiment. For instance, the phrase "as pleased as Punch" is another English idiom that describes someone who is extremely pleased or proud, often to the point of smugness. This idiom is derived from the character of Mr. Punch in the traditional puppet show, who is known for his cheeky grin and self-satisfaction. Another related idiom is "be as high as a kite," which also suggests a state of high excitement or happiness. This idiom likely originates from the idea that a kite, being high in the sky, is free and unbound, much like the feeling of elation one experiences when they are extremely happy. The use of idioms like "walking on air" serves several purposes in communication. Firstly, they add color and depth to language, making it more expressive and engaging. Secondly, they can convey complex emotions and states of being in a concise and easily understood way. Lastly, they often reflect cultural values and perspectives, providing a window into the collective psyche of a language community. In conclusion, the idiom "walking on air" is a powerful and evocative expression that captures the essence of extreme happiness. It is a testament to the beauty of language and its ability to convey profound human experiences through simple, yet profound phrases. Understanding and using idioms effectively can greatly enhance one's communication skills and cultural literacy.

to feel extremely excited or happy: After the delivery of her baby, she was walking on air. Feeling pleasure and happiness. (as) pleased as Punch idiom. be as high as a kite idiom.