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Upheld Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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upheld

[ʌpˈhoʊld ]

Definition

Context #1 | Verb

legal context

To uphold means to maintain or support something, particularly a decision, law, or principle. When a higher court upholds a decision made by a lower court, it means that the lower court's ruling remains in effect. Upholding a law suggests that the law is being enforced and respected. This term is often used in legal and formal contexts to indicate agreement or validation of a specific outcome.

Synonyms

confirm, endorse, maintain, support, sustain.

Examples of usage

  • The court upheld the previous ruling.
  • The judge upheld the law after careful consideration.
  • He upheld the principles of justice and fairness.
  • The organization upheld its commitment to equality.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Historical Origins

  • The term comes from the Old English 'upheldan', meaning to 'hold up' or 'support,' showing its roots in the idea of elevation.
  • It has been used in legal language since the 16th century, often in contexts relating to court decisions or laws.
  • The word signifies not just physical holding but also moral and ethical support, evolving in its usage over centuries.

Law and Governance

  • In legal terms, a court may 'uphold' a decision, meaning it agrees with a previous ruling and enforces it.
  • Upholding rights is fundamental in democratic societies, promoting justice and equality under the law.
  • Judicial review often involves the act of upholding laws against challenges, maintaining the rule of law.

Psychology

  • Upholding values plays a crucial role in personal identity and self-esteem, as people often feel more confident when their beliefs are respected.
  • Research shows that when individuals uphold their commitments, it positively affects their mental well-being and sense of integrity.
  • Cognitive dissonance can occur if a person upholds beliefs that contradict their actions, leading to stress until resolution.

Literature

  • Many literary works explore themes of upholding justice, such as in 'To Kill a Mockingbird,' where truth and moral integrity are fiercely defended.
  • Classic literature often contrasts characters who uphold their principles against those who betray them, highlighting human conflict.
  • Poets have long used the notion of upholding ideals as a means of inspiring social change, encouraging action for noble causes.

Pop Culture

  • Superhero narratives frequently involve characters who uphold justice and protect the innocent, illustrating the battle between good and evil.
  • Television shows often depict legal drama with plots centered around upholding laws, creating suspense in courtroom battles.
  • Music and art movements historically reflect themes of upholding freedom and self-expression, motivating social movements.

Origin of 'upheld'

The word 'uphold' originates from the Old English term 'uphaldan', where 'up' signifies 'higher' or 'above', and 'haldan' means 'to hold'. It evolved through the Middle English 'upholden', which retained the similar meaning of holding something up or supporting it. The prefix 'up' emphasizes the aspect of elevation, suggesting an action of lifting or supporting something to a higher status. Historically, the term has been used in various contexts, especially within legal frameworks, to refer to the act of maintaining or reinforcing decisions and principles. Its usage has solidified in the legal domain, where officials and judges are often expected to uphold laws and moral standards.

Word Frequency Rank

At #7,455 in frequency, this word belongs to advanced vocabulary. It's less common than core vocabulary but important for sophisticated expression.