NYT Dictionary

HIGHTAIL

/ˈhaɪ.teɪl/
VerbHIGH-tailhigh-tail · 2 syllablesGrade 6

Accepted in official NYT Spelling Bee puzzle years: 2018, 2023, 2025

Meaning

To move at full speed, especially in retreat.

Etymology

Origin: Unknown

From high + tail; refers to the behavior of fleeing animals, such as deer, that raise their tail when running away.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Synonyms

skedaddlehightailmove quicklyboundcanterdecampfleeflygallopbegone

NYT Puzzle Appearances

Accepted in 2 recorded puzzles:

Join the Spelling Bee Community

Get solving strategies, rare word lists, and puzzle tips in your inbox every week.