Higher
ˈhaɪər
Definitions
3 meaningsBeing at a greater height than something else; situated above something else.
ˈhaɪər
At a greater distance from the ground or base.
The mountain peak is much higher than the surrounding hills.
💡 Simply: Imagine a skyscraper. The higher up you go, the better the view, right? 'Higher' means something is at a taller place than something else. Like a kite is flying *higher* than the clouds!
👶 For kids: It means something is up more, like a bird flying up high!
More Examples
We need to aim higher if we want to succeed.
The plane flew higher into the atmosphere to avoid the storm.
How It's Used
"The birds were flying higher than the trees."
"The higher the altitude, the thinner the air."
Relating to a greater amount, value, or level than something else.
ˈhaɪər
Of a greater amount, number, or intensity.
The company reported higher profits this quarter.
💡 Simply: Imagine you're comparing two things: a small ice cream and a BIG ice cream. The big one has a *higher* amount of ice cream. It also can mean prices that cost *more*.
👶 For kids: It means more, or bigger, like when you have more candies, it's a higher amount!
More Examples
We need to set higher standards for ourselves.
A higher score on the test means you did well.
How It's Used
"Inflation led to higher prices."
"She aims for higher education after high school."
To increase the amount, degree, or intensity of something.
ˈhaɪər
To increase the amount or level of something.
They decided to hire a consultant to improve efficiency.
💡 Simply: Imagine you are turning a dial: higher music volume means 'higher' the sound. Or when you 'raise' your hand it goes higher too! That makes you taller in the room.
👶 For kids: It means to make something more. Like, if you hire someone, you have more people working with you.
More Examples
The government will higher taxes.
The students should hire a tutor to get higher grades.
How It's Used
"The company hired more staff."
"They'll hike the interest rates."
From Old English *hēarra*, comparative of *hēah* ('high').
Historically, 'higher' has been used in comparative form since Old English, consistently representing a comparative of height, amount, or degree.
Memory tip
Think of a ladder – going higher means going up.
Word Origin
"hēah ('high')"