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Dictionary.com
Definitions

take the cake

VERB
bring home the bacon
Synonyms
WEAK
bear the palm work for money
VERB
score
Synonyms
STRONGEST
accomplish connect gain get notch pull off rack up reach win
STRONG
amass arrive attain flourish impress procure prosper realize secure thrive triumph
WEAK
chalk up gain advantage hit pay dirt luck out make a killing make an impression make the grade put over
Antonyms
STRONGEST
depart fail forfeit leave lose miss pass
STRONG
give up languish neglect
WEAK
mend smooth
VERB
triumph
Synonyms
STRONGEST
conquer dominate flourish overcome overwhelm prevail prosper sweep thrive trounce win
STRONG
best sink subdue vanquish
WEAK
beat the game beat the system blow away carry the day come out on top get last laugh strike it big take it all win hands down win out
Antonyms
STRONGEST
fail forfeit languish lose surrender yield

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

Cake and Colbert in bed We take the cake home with us, and in bed we watch Colbert and eat cake and then brush our teeth because there’s been so much cake.

From Los Angeles Times • Aug. 5, 2025

"The attorney general’s lawyers have often appeared frustrated during this trial, but this morning’s session may take the cake," wrote the Times' Kate Christobek, who was reporting from the courthouse.

From Salon • Nov. 13, 2023

The streets of Seattle take the cake for the worst, possibly in the nation.

From Seattle Times • Mar. 19, 2023

However, there were many who were pleased to see the "American Idol" judge take the cake as well.

From Fox News • Apr. 19, 2021

In the morning the woman told the boy that she wanted him to walk to town, to the jail behind the courthouse, and take the cake to his father.

From "Sounder" by William H. Armstrong