Words / B1

hy-VIZ/ˌhaɪ ˈvɪz/

High-vis (id: high-vis) is informal UK for high-visibility: bright fluorescent yellow or orange clothing, often with reflective strips. A high-vis jacket / vest / trousers. US often says high-visibility vest or safety vest. Worn by cyclists, bin men, and anyone working near traffic. Adjective, also a noun: wear a high-vis.

Meaning

Bright fluorescent clothing that makes you easy to see (UK informal; from high-visibility).

Examples

• “Wear a high-vis jacket if you are cycling to the station in the dark.”
• “The school crossing person always wears high-vis, rain or shine.”
• “Borrow a high-vis from the site office before you walk across the yard.”

Good to know

high-vis (UK informal). Full: high-visibility. Contrast: ordinary dark coat (hard to see). a high-vis jacket / vest.

Near in meaning

high-visibility

New