uphill

[ adverb adjective uhp-hil; noun uhp-hil ]

adverb

1. up or as if up the slope of a hill or other incline; upward:

   The soldiers marched uphill. Water does not run uphill without assistance.

adjective

1. going or tending upward on or as if on a hill:

   an uphill road.

2. at a high place or point:

   an uphill village.

3. laboriously fatiguing or difficult:

   an uphill struggle to become wealthy.

   Synonyms: grueling, taxing, strenuous, hard, arduous

noun

1. a rising terrain; ascent.

uphill

/ ˈʌpˈhɪl /

adjective

1. inclining, sloping, or leading upwards
2. requiring arduous and protracted effort

   an uphill task

adverb

1. up an incline or slope; upwards
2. against difficulties

noun

1. a rising incline; ascent

Word History and Origins

Origin of uphill¹

First recorded in 1540–50; up- + hill

Example Sentences

Despite these successes, Meyerson-Knox said she's aware of how much steeper of an uphill battle advocacy for Palestinian liberation will be under the Trump administration.

From Salon

As advocates across social sectors brace for an uphill battle, the ability of organizations to respond effectively will depend heavily on funding, volunteer engagement and strategic mobilization.

From Salon

Many, from both sides of the political aisle, suggested Gaetz lacked the moral foundation needed to hold the position, and could face an uphill battle to winning confirmation in the Senate.

From Los Angeles Times

Biden's approval rating dropping below 40% in the final months of his presidency meant Harris faced an uphill battle attempting to recoup the Democratic backing her former running mate had hemorrhaged.

From Salon

Defender Molly Bartrip said the goal was the worst possible way to start against City and they were then facing an uphill battle.

From BBC

Related Words

• arduous
• exhausting
• grueling
• punishing
• strenuous