High-Tech Meaning, Examples & Usage

Meaning 1：state-of-the-art (high-tech)

high-tech 🔊

/ˌhaɪ ˈtek/

adj.

Describing something that uses the newest and most advanced technology, like computers, gadgets, and modern science.

High-tech smartphone with futuristic screen on dark surface

state-of-the-art 🔊

➕

/steɪt əv ðiː ɑːrt/

adj.

Describing something that uses the newest and most advanced technology, such as computers, gadgets, and modern science.

📁 Category：Technological Inventions 🔖 Level：Intermediate

📘 Details & Usage

📖 Root Explanation

Combines 'high' (advanced) and 'tech' (short for technology), indicating cutting-edge innovation.

💡 Mnemonic

Think of 'high' elevation and 'tech' gadgets: a skyscraper filled with robots and holograms = high-tech.

📖 Example

I love how high-tech the new library is, with self-checkout machines and tablets at every table. 🔊 I love how high-tech the new library is, with self-checkout machines and tablets at every table.

🔗 Collocations

high-tech industry – A sector focused on developing and using advanced technologies.

high-tech gadget – A modern device with sophisticated electronic components.

high-tech innovation – A new creation that applies the latest scientific knowledge.

🔄 Synonyms

cutting-edge (adj.) – At the forefront of technological development; very advanced.

advanced (adj.) – Having or using the latest technology or ideas.

modern (adj.) – Relating to the present time or recent times; using new methods.

🚫 Antonyms

low-tech (adj.) – Using or involving simple or old-fashioned technology.

outdated (adj.) – No longer in use or useful because it is old-fashioned.

primitive (adj.) – Relating to an early stage of development; simple and undeveloped.

📖 Cultural Story

Originating in the 1950s as an abbreviation of 'high technology,' it initially referred to advanced nuclear and electronic fields. Now widely used to describe modern, tech-driven devices.