high-profile
|high-pro-file|
🇺🇸
/ˌhaɪˈproʊ.faɪl/
🇬🇧
/ˌhaɪˈprəʊ.faɪl/
widely noticed; attracting public attention
Etymology
'high-profile' is an English compound formed from 'high' + 'profile'. 'High' comes from Old English 'heah' meaning 'tall' or 'lofty', and 'profile' entered English from French 'profil' (via Italian 'profilo'), ultimately from Latin elements meaning 'forward' and 'a line or edge'.
'profile' came into English from French 'profil' (17th century) via Italian 'profilo'; the modern compound 'high-profile' developed in English in the 20th century as a descriptive phrase meaning 'having a prominent public profile'.
Originally the parts meant 'tall/lofty' (high) and a 'side view or outline' (profile); combined in modern usage they convey the sense 'widely noticed' or 'prominent in public attention'.
Meanings by Part of Speech
Noun 1
a person or thing that attracts a lot of public attention; someone or something with a high public profile.
The politician became a high-profile after the controversy.
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Adjective 1
attracting a lot of public attention; widely reported or noticed.
The company launched a high-profile advertising campaign ahead of the product release.
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Adjective 2
seen as important, prestigious, or intended to attract attention (often used of events, positions, cases, or roles).
She was offered a high-profile position at the international office.
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Last updated: 2025/11/08 17:30