Too high for one’s nut, adv. phr. (American).—Out of one’s reach; beyond one’s capacity; over one’s bend (q.v.).
You can’t get high enough, verb. phr. (common).—A derisive comment on any kind of failure. [Probably obscene in origin.]
How is that for high? phr. (American).—‘What do you think of it?’ [Once a tag universal; common wear now.]
1860. Bartlett, Americanisms, s.v. High. For when he slapped my broad-brim off, and asked, How’s that for high? It roused the Adam in me, and I smote him hip and thigh!
1872. Clemens (Mark Twain), Roughing It, 334. We are going to get it up regardless of expense. [He] was always nifty himself, and so you bet his funeral ain’t going to be no slouch,—solid silver door-plate on his coffin, six plumes on the hearse, and a nigger on the box in a biled shirt and a plug hat,—how’s that for high?
1889. Pall Mall Gaz., 23 Sep., p. 2, c. 1. ‘Cricket’ stories are the thing just now. How is this for high?
High-bellied (or High in the Belly), adj. phr. (colloquial).—Far gone in pregnancy. Also High-waisted.
Highbinder, subs. (American).—1. A Chinese blackmailer.
2. (political American).—A political conspirator.—Norton.
High-bloke, subs. (American).—1. A judge.