# aloft

/əˈɫɔft/ (US) · /ɐlˈɒft/ (UK) · CEFR C1 · Adverb

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/aloft
Updated: 2026-05-09

## Definition

high up in the air or over your head. You often use it to describe things that are flying, floating, or being held up high.

For teachers: positioned or held at a great height; in the air or in flight. In a nautical context, it refers specifically to the area above the deck, such as in the rigging or on the masts.

## Examples

- The eagle stayed aloft for hours without flapping its wings.
- The crowd cheered as the winning captain held the silver trophy aloft for everyone to see.
- The hot air balloon remained aloft by virtue of the burner's constant heat, drifting silently over the valley as the morning mist began to clear.

## Usage notes

- Typically follows the verb it modifies or appears at the end of a clause; often pairs with verbs of motion or position like 'hold', 'stay', or 'remain'.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.