upend

[ uhp-end ]

verb (used with object)

1. to set on end, as a barrel or ship.
2. to affect drastically or radically, as tastes, opinions, reputations, or systems.
3. to defeat in competition, as in boxing or business.

verb (used without object)

1. to become upended.
2. to place the body back-end up, as a dabbling duck.

upend

/ ʌpˈɛnd /

verb

1. to turn or set or become turned or set on end
2. tr to affect or upset drastically

Word History and Origins

Origin of upend¹

First recorded in 1815–25; up- + end ¹

Example Sentences

Rypel said he feels for the people whose livelihoods have been upended by the fishing closures.

From Los Angeles Times

As budget cuts, state mandates and new food restrictions converge, a looming crisis threatens to upend the nation’s food assistance programs — pushing millions of low-income Americans closer to hunger.

From Salon

With Good Friday approaching and the markets still upended by President Donald Trump's tariffs, the sketch show's opener inserted Trump into the story of Jesus Christ.

From Salon

A global metropolis that, last week, was left shaken and on edge by Trump’s threats to upend and rework global trade.

From Los Angeles Times

Billionaire Elon Musk is trying to upend the federal government through his Department of Government Efficiency, working to end contracts, fire workers and dismantle and eliminate agencies and departments.

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• abolish
• conquer
• crush
• depose
• dethrone
• eradicate
• oust
• overcome
• overrun
• overturn
• put an end to
• raze
• subdue
• subvert
• topple
• unseat
• vanquish