high-up
Noun: - An important or influential person, often one holding a senior position within an organization or hierarchy. The term can sometimes imply that the person is perceived as overbearing or remote due to their status.
The word "high-up" is used as a countable noun to refer to individuals in positions of authority or significant influence. It is often used in informal or conversational contexts.
- Noun:
- The decision will have to be approved by the high-ups in the head office.
- A company high-up was seen touring the factory floor today.
- She complained to the high-ups about the unfair policy.
- The term is frequently used in the plural form ("high-ups") to refer collectively to senior management or leadership.
- It can carry a slightly critical or irreverent tone, suggesting a distance between regular employees and those in power.
- Higher-up (noun): A synonym with identical meaning and usage.
- The request was passed on to the higher-ups.
- Executive: A person with senior managerial responsibility in a business.
- Official: A person holding public office or having a position of authority.
- Bigwig (informal): An important person.
- Big shot (informal): An influential or important person.
- Subordinate: A person under the authority or control of another.
- Underling (often derogatory): A person of lower rank or status.
"High-up" functions exclusively as a noun in modern usage. While historical or other dictionary references may list it as an adjective (e.g., "a high-up position"), contemporary usage for the adjectival sense is overwhelmingly covered by the hyphenated compound adjective "high-up" (e.g., a high-up official). This entry focuses on its primary and distinct use as a noun.
- an important or influential (and often overbearing) person