take the cake

idiomatic phrase

variants chiefly US take the cake or British take the biscuit

informal

: to win the prize : to rank first

While it didn't take the cake for the warmest Christmas on record, it was close.

—Krista McEnany

—typically used to describe something that is very surprising, foolish, remarkable, annoying, etc.

There have been doozies in the flurry of free-agent signings … but the Giants' acquisition of quarterback Kerry Collins takes the cake.

—Peter King

Of all the invasions of her privacy, this one took the cake.

—Richard Peck

When he was quite sure that the narrative had ended he laughed noiselessly for fully half a minute. Then he said: "Well! … That takes the biscuit!"

—James Joyce

Examples of take the cake in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

While there are many dinner party themes that are unique and nostalgic, the 1970s take the cake for feeling fun, retro, and a little bit over-the-top in the best way. —Kaitlyn Yarborough, Southern Living, 31 Jan. 2025

In 2025, a new spot is taking the cake for America's Favorite Restaurant Chain. —Sophia Beams, Better Homes & Gardens, 31 Jan. 2025

During the segment there were a few touching moments, but the one with his mother took the cake. —Lauren Jarvis-Gibson, Southern Living, 13 Jan. 2025

The warehouse store is beloved for its muffins and pies, but their new croissant pinwheel might take the cake. —Kimberly Holland, Southern Living, 12 Jan. 2025

Word History

First Known Use

1847, in the meaning defined above