high
UK: haɪ | US: haɪ
adj. of great vertical extent; measuring a large distance from top to bottom
adj. greater than normal in quantity, size, or intensity
adj. (of sound) at or near the upper limit of audibility
n. a high point, level, or figure
n. a state of euphoria or intoxication
The word "high" traces back to Old English hēah, meaning "tall, lofty, or exalted." It shares roots with Proto-Germanic hauha- and is related to Dutch hoog and German hoch. The core concept of elevation—both physical (height) and metaphorical (status, intensity)—has remained consistent through its evolution. Unlike many modern English words, "high" is monomorphic, meaning it cannot be broken into smaller meaningful units (prefix/root/suffix) without losing its original spelling integrity.
The mountain peak was so high that it was covered in snow year-round.
She achieved high grades in all her exams.
The singer hit a high note effortlessly.
Gas prices reached a new high this summer.
He felt a natural high after finishing the marathon.