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Definition of highfalutin

highfalutin

/ˌhaɪfəˈluːtən/
high · fa · lu · tin
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highfalutin Lexical Profile

highfalutin Game Scores & Validity

• adjective

1

Pompous, pretentious, or absurdly lofty in speech, writing, or manner (used informally to mock perceived elitism).

Example

"The mayor dismissed his opponent's policy proposal as a bunch of highfalutin academic theories that would never work in real life."

Synonyms
View all synonyms for highfalutin
Antonyms
View all antonyms for highfalutin

Word Nuance & Usage

Used exclusively in informal, folksy, or satirical contexts, "highfalutin" is deliberately anti-pretentious; using it to criticize elitism creates a self-consciously down-to-earth tone.

• Rhymes for highfalutin

• Nearby Words

highborn
highbrow
highchair
highfalutin
highflier
highflyer
highflying

Word Origin & Etymology

Originating in 19th-century American slang, the word combines "high" with a fanciful alteration of "fluting" (playing the flute, or speaking in a high-pitched, affected voice) or "floating" (as in high-flown).

Cite this Entry

Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Highfalutin. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/highfalutin
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