lofty

[lawf-tee, lof-]

adjective

loftier, loftiest 

1. extending high in the air; of imposing height; towering.

   lofty mountains.

   Synonyms: elevated

2. exalted in rank, dignity, or character; eminent.

   Antonyms: lowly

3. elevated in style, tone, or sentiment, as writings or speech.

   Synonyms: sublime

4. arrogantly or condescendingly superior in manner; haughty.

   to treat someone in a lofty manner.

   Synonyms: supercilious
   Antonyms: humble

5. Nautical.,  noting a rig of a sailing ship having extraordinarily high masts.

6. (of fabric or yarn) thick and resilient.

lofty

/ ˈlɒftɪ /

adjective

1. of majestic or imposing height

2. exalted or noble in character or nature

3. haughty or supercilious

4. elevated, eminent, or superior

Other Word Forms

• loftily adverb
• loftiness noun
• overloftiness noun
• overlofty adjective
• unlofty adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of lofty¹

First recorded in 1400–50; late Middle English loft, -y ¹

Synonym Study

See high.

Example Sentences

Walking through the Tate's lofty rooms, pieces that blend indigenous Nigerian techniques like bronze casting, mural painting and wood carving, with more European styles are all on show.

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On record, “Anything For Love” gets a knowing wink with in-studio jibing between Lipa and her producers; here she played it straight as a lofty piano ballad for the back seats on a floating riser.

Read more on Los Angeles Times

Glasner's animated touchline energy transmits itself to a team with class in all areas, and one fully deserving of its current lofty position in the table.

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But he does possess the same lofty standards where his golf game is concerned.

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That was lofty praise, considering Reed, a Hall of Fame receiver, was such an integral part of those Buffalo Bills who reached four consecutive Super Bowls.

Read more on Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• exalted 
• noble 
• utopian