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

Capitol — elected to move on, refusing to convict their party’s leader for trying to upend the constitutional order.

From Salon

“Last month, the County Commission upended our ballpark agreement by not approving their bonds, as they promised to do,” Sternberg said.

From Los Angeles Times

Walt Disney Imagineering has in recent years been trying to upend the expectations that come with certain ride systems.

From Los Angeles Times

While much of the focus was on the president-elect’s nominations and appointments, we also had a reminder that his legal troubles have been upended by his victory.

From BBC

Jamie Lloyd, Sam Gold and Kenny Leon, three directors who don’t have all that much in common, conjure unexpected sounds from revivals that upend audience expectations.

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