lofty

American  

[lawf-tee, lof-] / ˈlɔf ti, ˈlɒf- /

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.

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lofty British  

/ 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

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Related Words

See high.

Other Word Forms

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

Etymology

Origin of lofty

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

Example Sentences

Even by the Supreme Court’s lofty standards, Wednesday’s hearing will be one for the ages.

From The Wall Street Journal

"Investing should be for the longer term and any scheme that is promising lofty returns should be really scrutinised and analysed," she said.

From BBC

Looming over the colorless town is its hulking circa-1385 monastery, extended in convent courtyards and stately chapels with lofty naves, offering dazzling displays of stained glass.

From The Wall Street Journal

In fact, allowing yourself to spend money on hobbies or experiences can actually help you stay on track to accomplish your bigger, loftier goals.

From MarketWatch

If AI demand turns out weaker than expected, or if the war in Iran continues to the point where it disrupts trade, lofty profit predictions likely won’t come true.

From Barron's

Related Words

• exalted
• noble
• utopian