What does “lofty” mean?
- 1
adjectiveof very high moral standard or ambition, sometimes unrealistically
The charity has lofty goals.
- 2
adjectivevery tall or high, in literary language
Lofty mountains surrounded the valley.
- 3
adjectiveacting as if you are better than others
She spoke in a lofty tone.
Lofty at a glance
- Part of speech
- adjective
- CEFR level
- C2 (proficient)
- Pronunciation
- /ˈlɔfti/ · LAWF-tee
- Forms
- loftier, loftiest
How to use “lofty” correctly
“Lofty ideals” can be praise or gentle criticism, suggesting the goals are hard to reach.
Common phrases with “lofty”
- lofty ideals
- lofty ambitions
- lofty heights
Synonyms, opposites and related words
Synonyms (similar meaning)
- noble
- towering
- haughty
Word family
- loft
“lofty” is on these word lists
Learn these words next
- dogged adjectiveC2refusing to give up, even when things are difficult
- earnest adjectiveC2very serious and sincere, sometimes too serious
- impertinent adjectiveC2rude and not showing enough respect, especially to someone older or more important
- languid adjectiveC2slow and relaxed, showing little energy or effort
- loath adjectiveC2unwilling to do something
- pious adjectiveC2deeply religious and careful to follow religious practices
- scrupulous adjectiveC2very careful to do everything correctly and pay attention to details
- staid adjectiveC2serious, old-fashioned and not adventurous