·superl Lifted high up; having great height; towering; high.
II. Lofty ·superl Fig.: Elevated in character, rank, dignity, spirit, bearing, language, ·etc.; exalted; noble; stately; characterized by pride; haughty.
Once a general name for square-rigged vessels: "A mackerel sky and mares' tails Make lofty ships...
The Sailor's Word-Book