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Region: US | Usage example: Despite the scandal, the politician came up smelling like a rose.

Come up smelling like a rose

Meaning

Emerging unscathed or admired after trouble.

Usage

Describes being vindicated after a blow to reputation.

Origin & History

Origin notes can vary by region and source; this page gives the commonly reported explanation and usage context.

Victorian writers used fragrant flowers to counter foul situations.

American newspapers used the phrase in the early 1900s.

Related Idioms

Come up smelling like roses

Emerges from a difficult situation surprisingly well.

Come hell or high water

No matter what obstacles appear.

Feel like a million dollars

Feel extremely well.

More Idioms

Break the ice

To do or say something to relieve tension or get conversation going in a social situation.

Cut to the chase

Skip ahead to the most important or exciting part of something.

The ball is in your court

It is now your turn to take action or make a decision.

Throw in the towel

To concede defeat or admit a struggle isn't worth continuing.