high handed etymology

Etymology:

The word "highhanded" is derived from the Middle English word "heigh-handed," which first appeared in the late 14th century. It is a combination of the words "high" and "hand," referring to an authoritarian or overbearing manner.

Meaning:

The adjective "highhanded" means:

  • Characterized by arrogance and an assumption of superiority
  • Overbearing and domineering
  • Exercised without regard for the rights or opinions of others

Origin:

The term "highhanded" stems from the medieval practice of feudal lords holding their hands high above their subjects to symbolize their power and authority. This gesture conveyed a sense of dominance and superiority.

Over time, the phrase "high-handed" came to be used more figuratively to describe someone who acted in a domineering or authoritarian manner. It became a pejorative term for those who abused their power or treated others with disrespect. Today, the word is widely used to criticize actions that are seen as arrogant, arbitrary, or unfair.

high handed relate terms

  • high

    Etymology The word high derives from the Middle English word hie which traces its ro

  • high handed

    Etymology The word highhanded is derived from the Middle English word heigh handed

  • hand

    Etymology The word hand comes from the Old English word hand which is itself derive

  • cavalier

    Etymology Medieval Latin caballarius meaning horseman or knight Latin caballus

  • ambidextrous

    Etymology The word ambidextrous originates from two Latin words ambi meaning bot

  • mace

    Etymology Middle English mas or mace Old French mace Latin matius Meaning

  • slack

    Etymology The word slack has Old English and Middle Low German roots Old English s

  • masterful

    Etymology The word masterful derives from the Old French term maistresse which in t

  • awkward

    Etymology The word awkward comes from the Middle English word awke meaning left han

  • have

    Etymology is the study of the origin and development of words including their form and me

  • hand

    Etymology The word hand comes from the Old English word hand which is itself derive