uphold

verb

Sayup-HOHLDUS/ˌʌpˈhoʊld//ˌʌpˈhəʊld/

3 meanings of uphold

1
verbtransitive
To support something by approval, confirming that it is valid when it has been questioned or challenged.
The appeals court chose to uphold the original verdict despite the defense's objections.
Her colleagues upheld her account of events when others doubted it.
Similarconfirm, sustain, affirm, support, endorse
Oppositeoverturn, reverse, overrule, reject
2
verbtransitive
To keep something standing or in place by supporting its weight so that it does not fall.
Massive pillars uphold the ancient temple's roof.
The old wooden frame could no longer uphold the sagging ceiling.
Similarsupport, bear, carry, sustain, hold
3
verbtransitive
To hold something up high, lifting or raising it to an elevated position.
The priests uphold the sacred relic before the gathered worshippers.
He upheld the lantern to light the dark passage ahead.
Similarraise, lift, elevate, hoist
Oppositelower

Practice

Can you tell the meanings of uphold apart? Answer 4 quick questions from this page, or write your own sentence and AI will check it.

Origin

From Middle English upholden, equivalent to up- plus hold. It can be compared with Dutch ophouden ('to stop, hold up') and German aufhalten ('to stop, detain'), as well as Middle Low German upholt and Old Norse upphald ('uphold, support').