get high: Idiom Meaning and Origin
What does ‘get high’ mean?
The idiom "get high" means to experience a state of euphoria or an altered state of mind, often induced by drugs or alcohol. It can also refer to feeling a sense of excitement or exhilaration. The phrase is used figuratively to describe the feeling of being elevated or elated.
Idiom Explorer
The idiom "in one's cups" refers to being drunk or intoxicated. It implies that someone has consumed so much alcohol that they are influenced or affected by it. The phrase is often used to describe someone who is behaving differently or experiencing the effects of excessive drinking.
The idiom "in one's altitudes" means that someone is feeling extremely happy or excited. It is often used to describe a person who is on top of the world or experiencing a great sense of achievement or joy.
The idiom "in one's altitudes" is a relatively obscure phrase that is not widely known or used in everyday conversation. However, there are related idioms that can help shed some light on its meaning and usage.
An idiom used to describe someone who is in an emotional or mental state of extreme agitation, distress, or confusion.
Idiom: hop up
Meaning: To consume or ingest a stimulant, typically referring to drugs, caffeine, or alcohol.
The meaning of the idiom "hop up" can vary depending on the situation in which it is used. It is often used to describe the act of increasing or enhancing something, whether it's the intensity of a physical activity or the quality of an object. The origins of this idiom can be traced back to the early 20th century in the United States.
The idiom "hit the roof" means to become very angry or furious about something.
In the realm of idiomatic expressions, the phrase “hit the roof” is a colloquial way to describe a sudden outburst or extreme anger. Its exact origins and historical usage are uncertain, but it has become a popular phrase in contemporary English.
The idiom "hit the high notes" means to perform exceptionally well or achieve success, often in a skill or talent that involves reaching a peak or climax.
The idiom "higher than a kite" means being under the influence of drugs or alcohol and feeling extremely intoxicated or euphoric.
The Elevated Experience
The idiom "get high" has a variety of meanings and uses in American English. It can refer to the act of consuming drugs or substances that alter consciousness and induce a state of euphoria or intoxication. In this context, "get high" implies achieving a temporary state of altered perception or heightened sensory experience. This can include using marijuana, cocaine, heroin, or hallucinogens. Recreational use of cannabis, for example, can lead to euphoria.
However, "get high" is not limited to just drug-related connotations. It can also be used metaphorically to describe a feeling of elation or excitement. It signifies experiencing a surge of positive emotions or a sense of exhilaration. This figurative usage is commonly employed in colloquial conversations or informal writing to convey extreme happiness or satisfaction. When someone is riding high with success, they are experiencing a feeling of great accomplishment and achievement.
Beyond its literal and figurative interpretations, "get high" can also describe reaching a superior or elevated position in various domains. It can signify the attainment of a high level of success, accomplishment, or achievement in professional, academic, or personal endeavors. When someone is riding high in their career, they have reached a superior position or have exceeded their own expectations. This can also be related to the idiom "higher than a kite," which is used to describe someone who is extremely euphoric or excited.
Additionally, "get high" can be used to describe the act of experiencing a sense of exhilaration or stimulation from engaging in activities that are not drug-related. This can include participating in extreme sports, embarking on adrenaline-inducing adventures, or engaging in thrilling experiences that provide a surge of adrenaline or heightened excitement. When engaging in these activities, individuals can get a fix for the excitement and thrill, similar to how people may seek a fix when using drugs.
The idiom "get high" encompasses a range of literal and figurative meanings in American English. It can refer to drug use, metaphorical expressions of elation, descriptions of achievement or success, and experiences of exhilaration or stimulation. It captures the complexity of human emotions and experiences, offering a concise yet impactful expression for a diverse array of contexts. So the next time you hear or use the phrase "get high," remember its versatility and the different ways it can be interpreted.
Example usage
Three examples of how the idiom "get high" can be used in a sentence are:
- I love hiking up mountains to get high and enjoy the breathtaking views.
- Some people use drugs to get high, but it's illegal and dangerous.
- She put on her favorite song to get high on the music and dance the night away.
More "drugs" idioms
