What does haught mean?
Haught is an adjective meaning proud and arrogant, usually with an implication that a person's manner is superior, distant, or dismissive. It can describe a person's tone, attitude, expression, or behavior, as in a haughty manner or a haughty refusal to speak to someone. The word is literary and somewhat old-fashioned, and it is often used critically rather than as a neutral description of self-confidence or pride. Although “haughty” is now the more familiar form, “haught” remains a precise and elegant alternative, especially in formal writing. Its associations with loftiness and self-importance make it useful when the social overtones of pride matter, not merely the fact that someone is dissatisfied. In ordinary conversation, however, the stronger and more accessible “haughty” is usually preferable.
adjectiveProud and arrogant, often suggesting a superior or contemptuous manner toward others. In literary use, it can also convey lofty or elevated dignity.
- Proud and arrogant, especially in a way that appears superior or dismissive toward others.
"Her haughty manner kept the visitors at a distance."
"The haughty stranger barely acknowledged their guide."
"Her haughty refusal to apologize offended the entire committee."
A haughty person is literally 'high' in spirit: the word descends from French haut, meaning 'high,' before its meaning developed toward proud arrogance.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does haught come from?
Haught belongs to a word family derived from Old French haut, meaning “high,” which ultimately comes from Latin altus, “high, lofty.” English used related forms during the early modern period, and the shorter adjective “haught” developed alongside “haughty.” The modern sense of proud arrogance emerged from the older idea of loftiness or elevation, with the associated sense of superiority becoming established over time.
Related word forms
How haught is actually used
Haught is literary and somewhat old-fashioned. It generally carries a critical or disapproving connotation, describing behavior that seems proud, superior, or dismissive. The related form haughty is more common in modern English.
Easily confused with haught
Haught is a relatively uncommon literary adjective, while haughty is the more familiar form and has essentially the same meaning of proud or arrogant.