Definition of above the clouds

Short definition: The phrase above the clouds describes being physically higher than the clouds or feeling emotionally lifted, calm, or detached from everyday worries, often suggesting peace, freedom, or a moment of escape from stress.

Looking for a clear and natural explanation of the phrase above the clouds? The phrase above the clouds is used both literally and figuratively in English. Literally, it describes a physical position higher than the clouds, often when flying. Figuratively, it expresses feelings of happiness, freedom, success, or emotional distance from problems. You will see it in travel writing, emotional descriptions, and motivational language. Below, each meaning is explained in a calm and natural way, with enough detail to feel clear, human, and vivid.

Forms: above the clouds
Related: above prep., cloud n., sky n.
Syllable: above the clouds

1. (Preposition phrase) Located physically higher than the clouds in the sky.

   Above the clouds describes a position in the sky that is higher than where clouds form, most commonly used when talking about airplanes, mountains, or viewpoints where clouds appear below rather than around you.

   As the plane climbed higher, they found themselves above the clouds, looking down at a soft white layer stretching endlessly below.
   From the mountain peak, the hikers stood above the clouds, feeling as if they were floating in the sky.
   The pilot announced they were now flying above the clouds, promising a smoother and quieter ride.

   Synonyms: over the clouds, higher than the clouds, in the upper sky, above cloud level, beyond the clouds, over cloud cover, at high altitude, sky high, far above ground, in the upper air, high in the sky, airborne above clouds
   Antonyms: below the clouds, under cloud cover, inside the clouds, at cloud level, beneath the clouds, ground level, near the ground, low altitude, under the sky cover, fog level, earthbound, on the surface

2. (Preposition phrase) In a mental or emotional state that feels joyful free or disconnected from worries.

   Figuratively, above the clouds is used to describe a feeling of happiness, peace, success, or emotional lift, where problems feel distant and life feels lighter and more positive.

   After hearing the good news, she felt above the clouds for the rest of the day, smiling without even realizing it.
   Finishing the project left him above the clouds, proud of the effort and relieved that the pressure was finally gone.
   Being with people who truly understood her made her feel above the clouds despite everything she had been through.

   Synonyms: on cloud nine, extremely happy, uplifted, emotionally high, joyful, light hearted, floating with happiness, carefree, overjoyed, at peace, mentally elevated, feeling great
   Antonyms: down in the dumps, depressed, overwhelmed, stressed, grounded by problems, weighed down, unhappy, anxious, burdened, low mood, emotionally heavy, troubled