high cotton
The best of times; a time of well being.
Meaning adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.
“Life is in high cotton for them right now.”
“You are in high cotton now that your business is a success.”
“After the promotion and the new house, the family is really living in high cotton.”
“With the harvest finished and the bills paid, the farmers felt they were in high cotton for the first time in years.”
“The local sports team is in high cotton after winning ten games in a row and securing a spot in the finals.”
“Having finally achieved the professional success he long sought, he found himself in high cotton, enjoying the fruits of his labor.”
The term originates from the rural farming communities of the American South during the antebellum period, preceding the Civil War. It describes a crop of sufficient height and density to indicate a successful harvest.
When the cotton was high, the yields were typically substantial and the market prices correspondingly favourable. The phrase has since transitioned from a literal agricultural observation to a general remark on personal prosperity.
- 01
come hell or high water
Regardless of the hardships; no matter what difficulties may arise.
- 02
cotton to
To like; approve of, accept, or tolerate.
- 03
friends in high places
Friends who have authority or influence and who can ensure that one's interests will be protected or furthered.
- 04
get high
To intoxicate oneself with drugs or other substances.
- 05
get off one's high horse
To stop acting in an imperious, overbearing or bossy manner.
- 06
hell or high water
Highly adverse circumstances; acts of God.
- 07
high and dry
Abandoned, stranded, helpless.
- 08
high and low
Everywhere; all over the place.
Last updated August 10, 2026