Highland: meaning, definitions and examples

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highland

 

[ ˈhaɪ.lənd ]

Noun
Context #1 | Noun

mountainous region

A highland is an area of high or mountainous land, such as the Scottish Highlands or the Ethiopian Highlands. Highlands are typically characterized by rugged terrain, with steep slopes and high elevations.

Synonyms

hill country, plateau, upland.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
highland

A general term for areas of higher elevations, often used to describe regions with mountains and high hills.

  • The Andes are a major highland region of South America
upland

Refers to elevated land or regions that are higher than the surrounding terrain. This term can be used in both a geographical and agricultural context.

  • The Uplands of Wales are known for their rugged terrain and beautiful landscapes
plateau

Describes an extensive flat area of land at a relatively high elevation. Plateaus are often found between mountain ranges or as a part of mountainous regions.

  • The Colorado Plateau spans across several U
  • S
  • states and features unique geological formations
hill country

Commonly refers to a hilly area, especially when the terrain is characterized by numerous hills of significant height. Often used for regions known for their hilly landscape and sometimes their rustic and natural beauty.

  • Texas Hill Country is known for its beautiful vistas and rolling hills

Examples of usage

  • The highlands of Scotland are known for their stunning landscapes.
  • Shepherd communities thrive in the highland regions of Peru.
  • The highlands offer breathtaking views of the surrounding valleys.
  • The indigenous people have adapted to the harsh conditions of the highlands.
  • The highland climate can be harsh and unpredictable.
Context #2 | Noun

whisky

Highland is also a term used to refer to a type of Scotch whisky that is produced in the Scottish Highlands. Highland whiskies are known for their smooth and complex flavors, often with hints of peat, heather, and oak.

Synonyms

Scotch whisky, single malt.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
highland

Referring to a specific area in Scotland known for its mountainous terrain and rich history. It can imply a sense of culture and heritage.

  • The Highland Games are a popular event in Scotland
  • He enjoyed hiking through the Scottish Highlands
Scotch whisky

Used when referring to whisky that comes from Scotland. Essential for emphasizing the origin and authenticity of the whisky.

  • He poured a glass of fine Scotch whisky
  • The bar has a wide selection of Scotch whisky
single malt

Describes a type of whisky made at a single distillery from malted barley. Often implies quality and is used by aficionados to specify a particular kind of whisky.

  • She prefers single malt whisky over blends
  • Each single malt whisky has its own unique flavor profile

Examples of usage

  • She enjoys sipping on a glass of Highland whisky by the fireplace.
  • The Highland distilleries produce some of the finest single malts in Scotland.
  • His collection of Highland whiskies includes rare and aged bottles.

Translations

Translations of the word "highland" in other languages:

🇵🇹 região montanhosa

🇮🇳 पहाड़ी इलाका

🇩🇪 Hochland

🇮🇩 dataran tinggi

🇺🇦 гірська місцевість

🇵🇱 wyżyna

🇯🇵 高地 (こうち)

🇫🇷 hauts plateaux

🇪🇸 tierras altas

🇹🇷 yayla

🇰🇷 고지대

🇸🇦 المرتفعات

🇨🇿 vysočina

🇸🇰 vrchovina

🇨🇳 高地 (gāodì)

🇸🇮 visokogorje

🇮🇸 hálendi

🇰🇿 таулы өңір

🇬🇪 მთიანი რეგიონი

🇦🇿 dağlıq ərazi

🇲🇽 tierras altas

Etymology

The word 'highland' originated in Middle English, combining 'high' and 'land'. It has been used since the 15th century to refer to elevated or mountainous regions. The term 'Highlands' became particularly associated with Scotland and its rugged landscapes. In the context of whisky, 'Highland' has been used to denote a specific region of Scotch whisky production, known for its quality and distinct characteristics.

See also: high, highbrow, higher, highest, highly, highway.

Word Frequency Rank

With rank #18,766, this word belongs to specialized vocabulary. While not common in everyday speech, it enriches your ability to express complex ideas.