Upper Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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upper

[ˈʌpər ]

Definitions

^{Context #1 | Adjective}

case

Higher in position, status, or value.

Synonyms

higher, higher-level, superior, top.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
upper	Use this term when referring to something that is physically above something else, or when talking about social hierarchy or positions. He lived in the upper part of the house. She is part of the company's upper management.
higher	This word is often used when comparing two things and indicating that one is above or more elevated than the other, either in physical height or in rank or degree. The mountains look higher from here. She has higher qualifications to apply for that job.
superior	Use this word when referring to something or someone that is better in quality, status, or rank. It can have a connotation of arrogance and suggesting that something is the best. Her skills are superior to most of her peers. The new model offers superior performance.
top	This term is often used to describe something that is the highest or most important in a particular context. It is casual and can also refer to the physical apex of something. He climbed to the top of the hill. She is one of the top students in her class.
higher-level	This term is typically used in professional or educational contexts to describe a position or course that is more advanced or demanding. He enrolled in a higher-level mathematics course. She received a promotion to a higher-level position in the company.

Examples of usage

The upper floor of the building offers a great view of the city skyline.
She comes from an upper-class family with a long history of wealth and privilege.

^{Context #2 | Noun}

clothing

A garment worn on the upper part of the body.

Synonyms

blouse, jacket, shirt, top.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
upper	This word refers generally to the upper part of something and is not typically used to describe clothing on its own. It might be used more in specific contexts like shoes or body parts. The upper part of the shoe is made of leather. She injured the upper part of her arm.
top	Top is a general term for any garment worn on the upper body, often used in a casual context. It can refer to a variety of styles including t-shirts, blouses, and tank tops. She chose a bright red top to wear to the picnic. I need to buy a few new tops for the summer.
blouse	A blouse is a woman's garment, often a loose-fitting top that can be worn for both casual and formal occasions. It is usually more elegant and dressy compared to a simple top. She wore a beautiful silk blouse to the office. For the dinner party, Maria chose a stylish blouse and a skirt.
shirt	A shirt is a garment for the upper body, typically with a collar, sleeves, and a front opening, typically worn by both men and women. Shirts are versatile and can be either casual or formal. He wore a crisp white shirt to his job interview. On weekends, she prefers wearing a comfortable T-shirt and jeans.
jacket	A jacket is an outer garment usually having sleeves and typically extending below the hips. It is worn for warmth or as a fashionable item. It's common in both casual and formal settings. He grabbed his leather jacket before heading out. The business suit included a tailored jacket.

Examples of usage

She was wearing a beautiful upper with intricate embroidery.
The designer specializes in creating unique uppers for formal occasions.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Architecture

In buildings, the upper floor is generally where more valuable rooms are located, like offices or apartments.
Designers often create upper levels with skylights to allow natural light into higher spaces.

Psychology

People often associate height with power; being in an upper position can lead to a sense of authority or leadership.
Studies suggest that humans have a natural inclination to perceive upper locations as more favorable or desirable.

Fashion

In clothing, 'upper' can refer to the upper garment like shirts and blouses, which are essential staples in wardrobes.
Athletic shoes often have an 'upper' part made from different materials, influencing comfort and performance.

Literature

The term 'upper' can be found in many classical texts, where it often denotes nobility or higher classes.
In poetry, upper imagery is used to evoke themes of aspiration, order, and elevation of spirit.

Origin of 'upper'

Main points about word origin

The word comes from Old English 'ūpera', which means 'of a higher place'.
In Middle English, 'upper' signified superiority or higher status in physical or metaphorical terms.

The word 'upper' originated from the Old English word 'uppe' meaning higher in place or position. Over time, it evolved to its current usage in Modern English. The term has been used in various contexts, from describing physical location to social status, and continues to be a versatile word in the English language.

See also: up, upend, upmost, upright, upset, upsides, upward, upwards.

Word Frequency Rank

At #944 in the frequency ranking, this word is highly important for effective communication. It's commonly used in daily situations and should be prioritized in your vocabulary building.

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941 differences
942 highly
943 sales
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945 constant
946 sources
947 trust
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