high as a kite
Meaning
To be extremely intoxicated by drugs or alcohol, often appearing disoriented or elated.
Origin
The phrase vividly captures a state of extreme intoxication by drawing a parallel to a kite soaring uncontrollably in the sky. The word 'high' itself had already become a common slang term for being under the influence of drugs or alcohol by the early 20th century, evoking a sense of elevated sensation and altered perception. Adding 'as a kite' amplified this image, suggesting not just elevation but also a lack of control, a wavering buoyancy, and a disconnection from the ground. This powerful visual metaphor gained particular traction during the mid-20th century, becoming a popular and enduring idiom to describe someone completely out of touch with reality due to intoxication.
Examples
- After the party, he was so high as a kite he could barely string a sentence together.
- She spent the afternoon giggling uncontrollably, high as a kite on a combination of laughter and too much champagne.