get high: Idiom Meaning and Origin

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.