Definition

1. Adverb:
   • At a great altitude or elevation; far above the ground or a base level. This describes a position that is physically elevated or located a significant vertical distance upwards.

Usage

The adverb "high up" is used to describe the location of something or someone as being at a considerable height. It often emphasizes that the position is notably elevated compared to a reference point, such as the ground or sea level.

Examples

• Adverb:
  • The eagle's nest was built high up in the cliffs.
  • We could see the entire city from our apartment high up in the skyscraper.
  • He hung the picture high up on the wall, out of the children's reach.

Advanced Usage

• "high up in/on [something]": This common collocation specifies the elevated object or structure where something is located.
  • The satellite orbits high up in the atmosphere.
  • The CEO's office is high up on the corporate ladder. (This is a metaphorical use, comparing corporate hierarchy to physical height.)

Variants and Related Words

• High (adverb): At or to a considerable or specified height. (e.g., )
• Up high (adverbial phrase): A less common variant with similar meaning, often used for emphasis or in informal speech. (e.g., )

Synonyms

• At a great height
• Far up
• Aloft (more formal/literary)

Notes on Meaning

• Literal vs. Metaphorical: Primarily used for literal, physical height. It can be used metaphorically (as in "high up in the organization") to indicate a position of seniority or importance, though this is an extension of the core meaning.
• Not a Noun or Adjective: In the provided context, "high up" functions solely as an adverbial phrase. It is not used as a noun (e.g., to mean an important person) in this specific entry.

Adverb

1. at a great altitude
   • he climbed high on the ladder