uphold

[ uhp-hohld ]

verb (used with object)

, up·held [uhp-, held], up·hold·ing.

1. to support or defend, as against opposition or criticism:

   He fought the duel to uphold his family's honor.

2. to keep up or keep from sinking; support:

   Stout columns upheld the building's heavy roof. Her faith upheld her in that time of sadness.

3. to lift upward; raise:

   The pilgrims upheld their eyes and thanked heaven for their safe journey.

4. British.
   1. to upholster.
   2. to maintain in good condition; take care of.

uphold

/ ʌpˈhəʊld /

verb

1. to maintain, affirm, or defend against opposition or challenge
2. to give moral support or inspiration to
3. rare.
   to support physically
4. to lift up

Derived Forms

• upˈholder, noun

Other Words From

• up·holder noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of uphold¹

First recorded in 1300–1350; Middle English upholden; up-, hold ¹

Example Sentences

Last year, in upholding Tennessee’s law, the 6th Circuit Court in Cincinnati took a moderate tone of deferring to state lawmakers who are grappling with “new and potentially irreversible medical treatments for minors.”

From Los Angeles Times

They ensure traditions are upheld, prepare for the rituals, and oversee arrangements inside the house.

From BBC

“With his added NFL experience,” Foster said at the time of Miller’s hiring, “I feel there is no one better to uphold our pillars while preparing the Bruins for Big Ten Conference play and beyond.”

From Los Angeles Times

Bangladesh's interim leader Muhammad Yunus has urged people to keep calm, saying that his government is committed to ensuring and upholding communal harmony.

From BBC

But he also said the deal upholds Lebanon's sovereignty.

From BBC

Related Words

• advocate
• confirm
• defend
• encourage
• endorse
• hold to
• justify
• promote
• side with
• stand by
• vindicate

When To Use

What are other ways to say uphold?

To uphold something means to support it or defend it against opposition or criticism. How is uphold different from maintain, support, and sustain? Find out on Thesaurus.com.