aloft

[ uh-lawft, uh-loft ]

adverb

1. high up; far above the ground.
2. Nautical.
   1. on the masts; in the rigging; overhead.
   2. (on a square-rigged sailing ship) in the upper rigging, specifically, on or above the lower yards ( alow ).
3. in or into the air.

preposition

1. on or at the top of:

   flags flying aloft the castle.

aloft

/ əˈlɒft /

adverb

1. in or into a high or higher place; up above
2. nautical in or into the rigging of a vessel

Word History and Origins

Origin of aloft¹

First recorded in 1150–1200; Middle English o loft, from Old Norse ā lopt “in the air”; equivalent to a- ¹ + loft

Word History and Origins

Origin of aloft¹

C12: from Old Norse ā lopt in the air; see lift ¹, loft

Example Sentences

The chill creates cold, dense air, which is squeezed from aloft by a high pressure system.

From Los Angeles Times

In 2006, he began bringing his daughter, then 7, to sit together in the rowdy supporters section, where fan groups banged drums and held aloft a giant banner known as “tifo.”

From Los Angeles Times

Just before he held the NL championship trophy aloft, he hollered a question that needed no answer.

From Los Angeles Times

But what keeps “How to Die Alone” aloft are its side stories and well-realized secondary characters.

From Los Angeles Times

The playwright’s words can transport us, but only a monumental performer like Jones’, in body and voice, can propel his sentiments aloft.

From Salon