high-key

adverb

ˈhī-ˈkē 

variants or less commonly high key or highkey

informal

: to a complete or absolute degree : totally, truly

—usually used as an intensive

While viewers are probably high-key stressed, the cast seems to be having a blast filming Season 7 …

—Megan Behnke

When I landed in Mexico City, I'll be honest—I was low-key nervous and high-key excited.

—Kimberly Wilson

High key wishing I had plans tonight …

—@biartsy, on X, formerly Twitter

compare low-key entry 2

Note: Usage of this sense originated in African American English and has since become widespread.

Word History

First Known Use

2008, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for high-key

• nike
• psyche
• spiky