# stratospheric

/ˌstɹætəsˈfɪɹɪk/ (US) · /stɹˌætəsfˈɛɹɪk/ (UK) · CEFR C1 · Adjective

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/stratospheric
Updated: 2026-10-19

## Definition

extremely high — much higher than normal. You use it for things like prices or levels that shoot up very fast.

For teachers: relating to the stratosphere, the upper layer of Earth's atmosphere. In extended use, describes levels, prices, or amounts that are extremely high.

## Examples

- House prices in the city reach stratospheric levels.
- After the product launch, demand sends the company's share price to stratospheric heights.
- What began as modest growth in the housing market turned stratospheric within a decade, leaving first-time buyers priced out of neighbourhoods their parents had once afforded easily.

## Synonyms

astronomical, exorbitant, soaring

## Antonyms

Low, cheap, minimal, modest

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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.