Upright: meaning, definitions and examples

This term is often used to describe a moral or ethical stance, or to characterize someone who is honest and fair. It can also refer to a position that is perpendicular to the ground.

• She is known for her upright behavior.
• The pole must be kept upright.

Commonly used in technical or scientific settings to describe something oriented at a right angle to the horizon. It is frequently applied in geometry or engineering contexts.

• The cliff had a nearly vertical wall.
• Align the picture so that it is perfectly vertical.

Usually employed in more formal contexts to describe the act of standing upright or maintaining a straight, vertical position. It can also refer to the physical state of something being built or set up.

• He stood erect with a sense of pride.
• The workers erected a new building.

Used in general contexts to describe something without bends or curves. It can be about honesty or directness in communication. Occasionally, it can be used to emphasize non-deviation in behavior or action.

• He drew a straight line.
• She spoke straight from the heart.

Used to describe a position that is vertical and perpendicular to the ground. Often used to talk about posture and integrity.

• She stood upright during the national anthem
• He is known to be an upright citizen

Used in technical or more specific contexts to describe something aligned with the direction of gravity, often in contrast to horizontally.

• The tree grows vertically towards the sky
• Align the painting vertically on the wall

Typically used to describe someone or something standing straight and tall, often with a sense of formality or rigidity.

• The soldier stood erectly during the parade
• The statue was positioned erectly in the park

Informally used to describe something that is in a direct vertical position, often used in casual or conversational speech. Can also be used to emphasize truthfulness.

• He held the fishing rod straight up
• Straight up, I have never seen anything like it