happy as Larry


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(as) happy as Larry

In very good spirits. The phrase's origin is unknown, but it may refer to Australian boxer Larry Foley. I was as happy as Larry when I found out that I'd gotten an A on my hardest exam.
See also: happy, Larry
Farlex Dictionary of Idioms. © 2015 Farlex, Inc, all rights reserved.

happy as Larry

BRITISH, INFORMAL
If you are as happy as Larry, you are very happy. I gave her a police badge to wear on her sleeve and she was as happy as Larry. Note: `Larry' may refer to the successful Australian boxer Larry Foley (1847-1917). Alternatively, `Larry' may come from `larrikin', a 19th century word for a hooligan or ruffian, used mainly in Australia.
See also: happy, Larry
Collins COBUILD Idioms Dictionary, 3rd ed. © HarperCollins Publishers 2012

(as) happy as the day is ˈlong/as a ˈclam/as ˈLarry

(informal) very happy: Grandpa’s as happy as a clam helping the children to fly their kites.
See also: clam, happy, Larry, long
Farlex Partner Idioms Dictionary © Farlex 2017
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References in periodicals archive ?
Star performance Happy As Larry, who continues to defy the handicapper and landed some good bets
Horse Racing: Larry maintains Pitt's all-weather momentum; LINGFIELD
TIM PITT is enjoying a season to remember, and his good run continued with a double courtesy of Yungaburra in the 5f nursery and Happy As Larry in the 1m handicap.
Horse Racing: Handicapper helps as Yungaburra sparks Pitt double; WOLVERHAMPTON
HAPPY AS LARRY: Mark Pollock with his faithful dog yesterday' WALKIES: Mark, Larry & Mr Blunkett
Top dog Larry leads the way
Chicken Soup romped home at 4-1 in the 5.50 at Wolverhampton and Happy As Larry came in at 2-1 in the 3.15 at Lingfield on Saturday.
OUR MOAN ON PHONE SCOOPED US pounds 4000; Exclusive Football agent tip for fans
You're right, Robbie, he's as happy as Larry, and I doubt he'd swap a cupboard full of empty awards for the joy his family life has given him.
FIONA PHILLIPS: Happy as Gary
Happy As Larry (c Yes It's True - Don't Be Blue by Henbane)
BLOODSTOCK DESK: Maiden winner of the day
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