What does taller mean?
Taller is the comparative form of the adjective tall. It describes something that has greater height than another person or object, as in “She is taller than her brother.” The word can also extend beyond physical measurement: “The taller order was placed last” and “The problem is taller than expected” use it to indicate a greater degree or magnitude. It is common in everyday speech and formal writing, and the superlative form is tallest. Because taller explicitly compares two things, it normally appears with than or in a clearly understood comparison. In informal contexts, it may suggest that the difference in height is noticeable, though it does not necessarily mean a very large difference.
Having greater height than something else.
"The oak is taller than the maple."
Used to compare two people or objects, typically with than.
Greater in degree, amount, or intensity than something else.
"They had to tackle a taller order than expected."
This extended sense is common in business, institutional, and technical contexts.
When two things compete in height, the taller one wins—even if only by a fraction.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Etymology of taller
Taller is formed by adding the comparative suffix -er to tall, following the regular pattern of English adjectives. The word tall comes through Middle English from an Old English form associated with a high or elevated appearance. Related forms include tallness, a noun meaning the quality of being tall. The comparative suffix -er is productive in English and appears in many adjectives, including taller, smaller, and older.
How taller is actually used
Taller is the comparative of tall and is normally used when comparing two people or things. The superlative is tallest.
Easily confused with taller
Taller is the comparative form of tall, while tailor is a person who makes or repairs clothing.