High-concept

//ˌhaɪˈkɒnsɛpt// adj

adj ·Rare ·Advanced level

Definitions

Adjective
  1. 1
    Of a work such as a book, film, or television programme: based on an appealing and easily communicable idea; also, of or relating to such a work. derogatory, sometimes

    "A high concept show has something that somebody could recognize in the title and would want to see. […] Elvis Presley and pills are the highest concept you could get. There are three people who are so high concept that you can live off them – Elvis, Jackie Onassis and Liz Taylor."

  2. 2
    Based on an idea or theme, especially one regarded as highly artistic or intellectual. broadly, proscribed, sometimes

    "I’m not too sure about that new molecular gastronomy restaurant. It seems too high-concept and snooty for me."

Example

More examples

"A high concept show has something that somebody could recognize in the title and would want to see. […] Elvis Presley and pills are the highest concept you could get. There are three people who are so high concept that you can live off them – Elvis, Jackie Onassis and Liz Taylor."

Etymology

PIE word *ḱóm From high (adjective) + concept (noun).

Data sourced from Wiktionary, WordNet, CMU, and other open linguistic databases. Updated March 2026.