lucky dog
Meaning
A very fortunate person who experiences good luck often or unexpectedly.
Origin
The term "lucky dog" didn't originally refer to fortunate canines, but rather used the word "dog" as a casual, somewhat familiar, and often slightly self-deprecating or envious term for a person. It gained significant traction in American English during the 19th century, particularly after its appearance in popular literature like Mark Twain's writings. The phrase paints a vivid picture of someone whose good fortune seems almost effortless, as if luck simply follows them around like a loyal pet. It’s a playful idiom, often uttered with a smile and a touch of jealousy, to acknowledge someone's improbable string of good breaks.
Examples
- He found a hundred-dollar bill on the sidewalk this morning, what a lucky dog!
- My sister got a promotion and a raise in the same week; she's such a lucky dog.