Langimage
English

altisonous

|al-ti-so-nous|

C2

/ælˈtɪsənəs/

high-sounding language

Etymology
Etymology Information

'altisonous' originates from Latin, specifically the word 'altisonus,' where 'altus' meant 'high' and 'sonus' meant 'sound.'

Historical Evolution

'altisonus' transformed into the English word 'altisonous' through Middle English.

Meaning Changes

Initially, it meant 'high-sounding,' but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'pompous or grandiloquent language.'

Meanings by Part of Speech

Adjective 1

characterized by high-sounding or pompous language.

The politician's speech was filled with altisonous phrases that impressed the audience.

Synonyms

Antonyms

Last updated: 2025/07/05 10:06