highfalutin’

In Appalachian and Southern speech, "highfalutin’" means pretentious, fancy, or putting on airs. It’s a playful way of cutting down somebody who’s acting like they’re better than the rest.

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Hillbilly Dude Says...
Any time somebody's actin' better'n you, somebody down here might call 'em highfalutin’. 

Pronunciation

[HIGH-fuh-loo-tin]

Meaning & Usage

- Pretentious or showy (adjective)

Mae:
Why’d you bring caviar?
Earl:
Figured I’d be a little highfalutin’ tonight.

- Acting superior (adjective, figurative)

Mae:
They got that new house and been a touch highfalutin’ ever since.
other spellings: highfaluting
★ Calling someone "highfalutin’" is more teasing than cruel. It keeps pride in check with a wink, not a fight. ★

Origin

First appeared in the early 1800s in American English, likely from the word "falute" or "flute," meaning pomp or showiness. It stuck strongest in Southern and Appalachian speech.

Notes

Still used today, often with humor. Works best in storytelling, joking with friends, or pointing out when somebody’s acting a little too fancy.

Say It Like a Southerner

Said plain: "high-fuh-loo-tin." The dropped "g" keeps it Southern: "highfalutin’."

Kin Topics

Kin Words, Stories and More

Common Questions

Is "highfalutin’" insulting?
It can be, but it’s usually lighthearted, not mean-spirited.
Do people outside the South use it?
Yes - it’s known nationwide, though it sounds more natural in Southern or rural voices.
Can it be used for things as well as people?
Yes - a "highfalutin’ restaurant" or "highfalutin’ language" both fit.
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