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Uphold Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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uphold

[ʌpˈhəʊld ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Verb

in law

To support or maintain a decision or law, or to keep it in place.

Synonyms

approve, confirm, endorse, validate.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
uphold

Use this word when referring to maintaining or supporting a principle, law, or decision.

  • The Supreme Court decided to uphold the lower court's ruling
  • We must uphold the company's values
confirm

Use 'confirm' to indicate verifying the truth, accuracy or finality of something.

  • Can you confirm the reservation for tonight? She received a phone call to confirm her appointment
validate

This word is appropriate for confirming the validity or legitimacy of something through evidence or demonstration.

  • The scientist worked hard to validate her theory
  • Can you validate this parking ticket?
endorse

Use 'endorse' when showing public or official support for someone or something, often in promotional contexts.

  • The celebrity decided to endorse the new product
  • The politician's campaign was endorsed by a famous activist
approve

This word is suitable when giving consent or officially agreeing to something.

  • The manager needs to approve the budget before we proceed
  • She doesn't approve of his behavior

Examples of usage

  • The judge upheld the jury's verdict.
  • The Supreme Court upheld the lower court's ruling.
Context #2 | Verb

in morals

To uphold something means to defend or support it, especially when it is being criticized or attacked.

Synonyms

defend, maintain, protect, support.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
uphold

This is typically used when talking about principles, laws, or traditions.

  • The judge must uphold the law
  • We must uphold our family values
defend

Used when talking about protecting someone or something from an attack, criticism, or legal accusations.

  • He had to defend himself in court
  • Soldiers are trained to defend their country
support

This is used when providing assistance or backing to someone or something.

  • Her friends came to support her during difficult times
  • The columns support the roof of the building
maintain

Used in the context of keeping something in good condition or continuing something without change.

  • She maintains her car very well
  • It's important to maintain a healthy lifestyle
protect

Involves keeping someone or something safe from harm or damage.

  • Parents always want to protect their children
  • Sunscreen helps to protect your skin from the sun

Examples of usage

  • She always upholds her principles no matter what.
  • He upholds the values of honesty and integrity.

Translations

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

Origin of 'uphold'

The word 'uphold' originated from the combination of 'up' and 'hold'. The concept of 'upholding' something has been present in various languages and cultures throughout history, as the idea of supporting or maintaining a decision or principle is fundamental to human society. The word has evolved over time to encompass both legal and moral contexts, reflecting the importance of standing by one's beliefs and commitments.

See also: held, hold, holder, holders, holding, holdings, holdup, upholding, withhold, withholding.

Word Frequency Rank

Ranked #10,456, this word falls into high-advanced vocabulary. It appears less frequently but is valuable for expressing precise meanings in specific contexts.