high-minded

[hahy-mahyn-did]

adjective

1. having or showing high, exalted principles or feelings.

   Synonyms: scrupulous, idealistic, ethical, fair, honest, principled

high-minded

adjective

1. having or characterized by high moral principles

2. archaic,  arrogant; haughty

Other Word Forms

• high-mindedly adverb
• high-mindedness noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of high-minded¹

First recorded in 1495–1505

Synonym Study

See noble.

Example Sentences

It’s difficult to imagine a worse addition to this oil-and-water mix of high-minded nonconformist cranks and hard-toiling middle-class settlers than a capitalist sybarite.

From Los Angeles Times

Before his apparent demise, David and Juno had been heading down separate paths regarding their company — he more high-minded, she more mercenary.

From Los Angeles Times

If the last election showed anything, it’s that high-minded principles, like standing up for democratic norms, are less important to many voters than, say, the cost of gasoline and groceries.

From Los Angeles Times

For generations of attorneys, he has personified courage against long odds and the high-minded practice of law in service of social good.

From Los Angeles Times

Delegates might start with high-minded rhetoric about coming together and getting along, but they would swiftly pivot to attacking people for perceived differences, usually with weird conspiracy theories.

From Salon

Related Words

• honest 
• noble 
• virtuous