(as) happy as a duck in Arizona

(as) happy as a duck in Arizona

Unhappy or miserable. The predominately dry, desert environment of Arizona is meant to contrast with a duck's aquatic habitat. Her date never showed up, so she's about as happy as a duck in Arizona right now. You didn't hand in your report on time? Ah, so that's why the boss is happy as a duck in Arizona. I'm not surprised Luke resigned—he's been as happy as a duck in Arizona since getting passed over for yet another promotion.
See also: Arizona, duck, happy
Farlex Dictionary of Idioms. © 2024 Farlex, Inc, all rights reserved.

happy as a duck in Arizona

Unhappy. Ducks like water. Arizona is a largely arid state. Ergo, an unhappy person would be as unhappy as a teal in Tucson. Contrast that condition with someone who is as happy as a clam at high tide or as a flea in a doghouse.
See also: Arizona, duck, happy
Endangered Phrases by Steven D. Price Copyright © 2011 by Steven D. Price
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