Meaning of the word "take the cake" in English

What does "take the cake" mean in English? Explore the meaning, pronunciation, and specific usage of this word with Lingoland.

take the cake

US /teɪk ðə keɪk/
UK /teɪk ðə keɪk/
"take the cake" picture

Idiom

to be the most outstanding or remarkable of its kind, often in a negative or surprising way

Example:
His excuse for being late really takes the cake; he said a squirrel stole his car keys.
Of all the bad ideas, that one really takes the cake.