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Upright Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

๐Ÿ‘
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upright

[หˆสŒpหŒraษชt ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Adjective

body posture

Erect, vertical, or straight, especially in a position of standing or sitting.

Synonyms

erect, straight, vertical.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
upright

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.
vertical

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.
erect

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.
straight

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.

Examples of usage

  • He stood upright with his shoulders back.
  • She sat upright in her chair, listening intently.
Context #2 | Adverb

body posture

In a vertical, erect, or straight position.

Synonyms

erectly, straight up, vertically.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
upright

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
vertically

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
erectly

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
straight up

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

Examples of usage

  • The soldier stood upright at attention.
  • She held herself upright, despite the pain.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Psychology

  • Standing or sitting upright is often associated with confidence, which can affect how we feel and behave in social situations.
  • Research shows that maintaining an upright posture can improve mood and reduce stress levels.

Literature

  • In classic literature, the term is frequently used to describe characters with moral integrity who stand firm in their beliefs.
  • Poets often use 'upright' metaphorically to symbolize virtues like honesty and strength of character.

Architecture

  • In building design, being 'upright' is crucial for the stability and safety of structures, ensuring they can withstand various forces.
  • The design of skyscrapers emphasizes uprightness as a symbol of human achievement and aspiration.

Cultural Perspectives

  • In many cultures, postures reflect respect; standing upright while greeting someone can signify honor and attentiveness.
  • In some martial arts, the concept of 'upright' posture is essential for balance and control during movements.

Origin of 'upright'

Main points about word origin

  • The word 'upright' comes from Old English 'upriht,' combining 'up' (upwards) and 'riht' (straight or correct).
  • In different languages, similar meanings exist; for example, in Latin, 'erectus' denotes standing straight up.

The word 'upright' originated from the combination of 'up' and 'right', suggesting a vertical position aligned with the Earth's gravitational force. The term has been used for centuries to describe a posture or position that is perpendicular to the ground, symbolizing strength, dignity, and proper alignment.

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

Word Frequency Rank

At #5,913 in frequency, this word belongs to advanced vocabulary. It's less common than core vocabulary but important for sophisticated expression.