cat that ate the canary noun2 •A person who appears self-satisfied or smug, especially while concealing something mischievous, prohibited, or private.He talked freely and carried the smile of the cat that swallowed the canary. — 1910 •A person whose appearance and behavior suggest guilt mixed with other qualities, such as satisfaction or feigned nonchalance.Like the cat that swallowed the canary. Not only do you feel a little bit guilty 'cause you can't stop, but you feel pretty good, too. — 2001