Highland

Podcast 1 · Introduction

Highland

A documentary-style narration: origin, meaning, and feel.

Part of speech

noun and adjective

Pronunciation

HY-lund  /ˈhaɪlənd/

Definition

As a noun: an area of high or mountainous land; (the Highlands) specifically the mountainous region of northern Scotland. As an adjective: of, relating to, or characteristic of highland regions, especially the Scottish Highlands.

Plain meaning

A highland is an area of elevated, often mountainous land. The Highlands most commonly refers to the mountainous region of northern Scotland — the Gaelic-speaking, clan-organised, and geographically remote area that has a distinct cultural identity from the Lowlands. Highland is also used as an adjective for anything related to this landscape or culture.

Register

Neutral in its geographic sense; culturally specific when applied to Scottish Highland culture. Highland used as an adjective — Highland cattle, Highland Games, Highland dancing — carries specific cultural associations with Scotland.