1
: high in social, moral, or intellectual quality
2

Examples of high-toned in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Many global rums are clean and light by design; Hampden’s are unabashedly expressive—ripe, high-toned, and unmistakable. Gina Pace, Forbes.com, 8 Sep. 2025 Blake is accused of having drifted into high-toned seriousness; Albert, now writing for television, is branded a sellout. Justin Chang, The New Yorker, 19 Mar. 2025 Bright high-toned notes of cherry and strawberry show on the palate with an intriguing texture that hints at a bit of tannin. Katie Kelly Bell, Forbes, 23 Dec. 2024 This version from Pala winery hits the high-toned cherry fruit notes, while wild herbs resonate on the finish. Dave McIntyre, Washington Post, 11 Apr. 2024

Word History

First Known Use

1770, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of high-toned was in 1770

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Cite this Entry

“High-toned.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/high-toned. Accessed 20 Sep. 2025.

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