Phrase guide

hand in the cookie jar

noun · 1 senses · updated from the 2026-07-25 local source snapshot

Definitions and examples are grouped by meaning. Pronunciation, history, word forms, translations, descendants, synonyms, antonyms, derived terms, and related words appear whenever the source provides them.

Sound

Pronunciation

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1

noun

Meaning 1

Used to indicate an act of theft or other wrongdoing.

Definition source: English Wiktionary via Wiktextract

Usage: figuratively

Examples

  • She had her hand in the cookie jar throughout her term of office.
  • He was caught with his hand in the cookie jar and eventually found guilty of embezzlement.

Meaning relationships

Synonyms: caught raiding the cookie jar, fingers in the cookie jar

Antonyms: none provided

History

Etymology

After small children disobediently taking cookies to snack on, hoping their parents will not notice.