life of Riley life of Riley {n. phr.}, {informal} A soft easy life; pleasant or rich way of living. He's living the life of Riley. He doesn't have to work anymore. Compare: BED OF ROSES, IN CLOVER, LIVE HIGH OFF THE HOG. Categories: add yours life {informal} {n. phr.} Source: A Dictionary of American Idioms by A. Makkai, M.T. Boatner, J.E. Gates © 2024 To section: L Subscribe to: American IdiomsIdioms feedEnglish languageHome page and general feed Comment on this entry