highland
3 synonyms and 1 antonym for highland, grouped by meaning and by how common each one is.
Noun — An area of land that sits higher than the land around it.
Synonyms
Rare, literary or technical
Precise, but they will stand out — check the sense before using one.
Synonyms by Meaning
1. noun
An area of land that sits higher than the land around it.
“Coffee grows well in the cool highland regions.”
Opposites
2. adj
Relating to hilly or mountainous terrain, especially the Scottish Highlands.
“He wore a traditional highland kilt to the wedding.”
How to use highland
The word patterns that sound natural to a native speaker.
highland region
highland dress
highland cattle
Etymology
From Old English hēahland, a straightforward compound of high and land, also found in similar forms across the Germanic languages.
Full origin of highland →Frequently asked questions
What does “highland” mean?
The word “highland” means an area of land that sits higher than the land around it. In plain terms, high, hilly ground, or anything associated with such regions — most famously the Scottish Highlands.
How do you pronounce “highland”?
“Highland” is pronounced HEYE-luhnd (/ˈhaɪ.lənd/ in IPA).
How do you use “highland” in a sentence?
Here is “highland” used in a sentence: “Coffee grows well in the cool highland regions.”
What part of speech is “highland”?
Depending on how it is used, “highland” can be a noun and an adjective.
Where does the word “highland” come from?
The word “highland” comes from Old English. From Old English hēahland, a straightforward compound of high and land, also found in similar forms across the Germanic languages.
Is “highland” a common word?
“Highland” is an uncommon word in modern English.
How many meanings does “highland” have?
“Highland” has 2 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: an area of land that sits higher than the land around it.
What is the difference between a highland and a plateau?
A highland is simply an area of land that sits higher than the surrounding land, without implying a particular shape. A plateau is a specific type of highland with a flat top, raised above the surrounding area on at least one side by a steep slope.
What does "Highland" refer to when capitalized?
Capitalized, "Highland" most often refers to the Scottish Highlands, the mountainous region of northern Scotland, or is used as an adjective relating to that area, as in Highland dress or Highland cattle.
Is highland used as both a noun and an adjective?
Yes, highland can function as a noun referring to an area of elevated land, or as an adjective describing something relating to hilly or mountainous terrain, especially the Scottish Highlands. Both uses are common in geographic and cultural contexts.
