# Alta

/ˈɑɫtə/ (US) · CEFR C2 · Adjective

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/alta
Updated: 2026-08-15

## Definition

a very old word for high. It is mostly found in old poetry or in the names of places and stars.

For teachers: high or elevated in position or status. Primarily archaic or poetic; survives largely in astronomical nomenclature and place names.

## Examples

- The star Altair is part of the constellation Aquila.
- The poet described the alta peaks of the mountains reaching toward the heavens.

## Usage notes

- Used primarily in poetic, archaic, or specialized scientific contexts.

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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.