adjective

tall

TAWL/tɔːl/

Extending a long distance upward.

The tall woman stands beside two women of average height.

An unusually tall older woman stands beside two average-height older women on the same level ground.

Etymology

Tall probably continues Middle English tal, “handsome” or “valiant.” Its height sense likely emerged from earlier descriptions such as “large,” “handsome,” and “seemly,” narrowing a broader description of a person to physical stature.

In context

truly3:16

I love many things about being tall. I am strong. I can lift heavy things and I can reach up high.

6ft 9in Tall Woman’s Confidence Hits New Heights

More examples

My younger brother is already taller than I am.
This sunflower grows nearly eight feet tall.
The tallest building in town stands beside the river.

Forms

tall · taller · tallest

tallness noun — The quality of having great height.

Similar words

high: Often describes vertical extent or elevation, rather than people's stature.
towering: Emphasizes height far above that of nearby people or things.