High: meaning, definitions and examples

Used to describe something that is a large distance above the ground, or to describe something with a large amount, degree, or rank.

• The mountains in the region are very high.
• He has a high level of expertise.

Used to describe something or someone with greater than average height, particularly in a physical sense.

• She is tall and athletic.
• The skyscraper is one of the tallest buildings in the city.

Often used in formal contexts to describe something raised to a higher position or level, both physically and metaphorically. It can also indicate something that is more dignified or important.

• The doctor said she had an elevated blood pressure.
• He gave an elevated speech during the ceremony.

Used to describe something of great significance, value, or consequence. It is often used to highlight the weight or impact of something.

• It's important to eat a balanced diet.
• She has an important meeting with her boss tomorrow.

Used to describe something that is very strong, forceful, or extreme in degree. It is often associated with emotions, colors, experiences, or actions.

• The heat during the summer was intense.
• They shared an intense conversation about the future.

Typically used to describe something that is positioned at a significant distance above the ground or a base level.

• The airplane was flying high in the sky.
• He lives in a high building with great views.

Indicates a movement or direction from a lower point to a higher one.

• Smoke rose upward from the chimney.
• The balloon drifted slowly upward.

Often used to describe something raised to a higher position or level, both literally and metaphorically.

• The train travels on an elevated track.
• She holds an elevated position at the company.

Used to indicate a position higher than something else, often in a relative sense.

• The sun rose above the horizon.
• Please place the picture above the mantel.

Commonly used in more poetic or formal language to indicate something being up in the air or overhead.

• The flag fluttered aloft in the breeze.
• He held the torch aloft, guiding the others.

Use this word to refer to something that is elevated in height or level. It can be both literal and metaphorical.

• The mountains are very high
• She scored high marks on her exam

Refers to the highest point in a physical or metaphorical sense. Often used when talking about mountains, performance levels, or career achievements.

• She reached the peak of Mount Everest
• The athlete is at the peak of his career

This word describes the greatest possible amount, level, or degree of something.

• The maximum capacity of the room is 100 people
• He reached the maximum speed on his bike

Typically used to describe the highest point of a mountain; can also refer to high-level meetings between leaders.

• The climbers finally reached the summit of the mountain
• The world leaders met at the economic summit

Used to describe the highest or most successful point in someone's life or career. Often has a more formal or poetic tone.

• Her career reached its zenith in the 1990s
• At the zenith of his power, he controlled the entire region