What does loftiness mean?
Loftiness is a formal noun that primarily means height or elevation, as in the loftiness of a mountain or building. It can also describe an elevated, noble, or intellectually ambitious quality, especially in phrases such as “lofty ideals” or “lofty ambitions.” In another common usage, loftiness refers to pride, haughtiness, or an exaggerated sense of superiority, often with a negative connotation. The word is useful because it can move from a literal physical meaning to figurative ideas of grandeur and moral or intellectual elevation. In describing people’s behavior, however, it usually suggests that someone is acting arrogantly or maintaining too great a distance from others.
The quality of being high or elevated, especially in a building, landscape, or other physical space.
"The loftiness of the cliffs made the harbor below appear sheltered."
This literal sense is formal but neutral in tone.
Pride, arrogance, or a superior attitude in speech or behavior.
"His loftiness discouraged colleagues from speaking openly with him."
This figurative sense is generally critical and implies excessive pride rather than simple confidence.
Nobility, grandeur, or an elevated intellectual or moral character.
"The movement was founded on lofty principles of justice and equality."
This usage is formal and often appears with words such as ideals, ambitions, aims, and aspirations.
The plural is rare and usually appears in formal or technical writing.
"The critic discussed the changing loftinesses of the different architectural styles."
From a high room to a high opinion of oneself: loftiness can describe both a lofty viewpoint and a lofty attitude.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does loftiness come from?
Loftiness derives from the adjective lofty, which in turn comes from Middle English loft, meaning “upper chamber” or “height,” from Old Norse lopt, associated with a loft or upper storey. The modern figurative sense developed through the idea of being elevated in rank, character, or attitude. Related words include lofty, aloft, and loftily, all sharing the same historical root.
How loftiness is actually used
The word is formal in both its physical and figurative uses. In the figurative sense, it often has a critical or disapproving tone, describing excessive pride or arrogance; it can also be used more neutrally in expressions referring to noble or elevated ideals.
Easily confused with loftiness
A loft is an upper room or storage space in a building, whereas loftiness is the quality of being high or, figuratively, haughty.
Lofty is an adjective describing something that is high, elevated, or noble, while loftiness is the noun naming that quality.