on high
Idioms-
Up in the sky; also, in heaven. For example, They fixed their eyes on high, looking for the comet , or, in the Bible (Psalms 63:5), “The Lord our God who dwelleth on high.” [c. 1200]
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In a position of authority, as in Those on high have decreed that we work every other weekend . This usage is an ironic transfer from def. 1. Also see powers that be .
Example Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
Skyhook says that during the summer months, pilots remain on "high alert for the danger of wildfires" and are ready to respond quickly.
From BBC ● Jul. 20, 2026
Taiwanese President Lai Ching-te urged people in areas likely to be most affected by Bavi to remain on "high alert".
From Barron's ● Jul. 10, 2026
Security has been on high alert, and portraits and quotes of Khamenei have been draped on the walls of the Grand Mosalla ahead of the funeral ceremonies.
From Barron's ● Jul. 3, 2026
She described a work culture where there was "no room for mistakes" and everyone was on "high alert".
From BBC ● Jul. 1, 2026
Styx popped in his earbuds and rode patiently, bopping and singing from on high.
From "The Season of Styx Malone" by Kekla Magoon
Definitions and idiom definitions from Dictionary.com Unabridged, based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2023
Idioms from The American Heritage® Idioms Dictionary copyright © 2002, 2001, 1995 by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company.
