Entry Word: highfalutin

Function: adjective

Meaning: 1 full of fine words and fancy expressions <highfalutin speeches about the noble king and his glorious realm on the tenth anniversary of his reign> — see flowery 1
2 having a feeling of superiority that shows itself in an overbearing attitude <her highfalutin relatives from New York made the snide remark that her little house “has that lived-in look”> — see arrogant
3 having or displaying feelings of scorn for what is regarded as beneath oneself <refused to be intimidated by the highfalutin manner of the sales staff in the fashionable boutique> — see proud 1
4 self-consciously trying to present an appearance of grandeur or importance <“fine Southern cuisine” sounds a bit highfalutin for a barbecue shack> — see pretentious 1