Upstarting Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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upstarting

[หˆสŒpหŒstษ‘หrtษชล‹ ]

Definition

Context #1 | Noun

business idea

An upstart refers to a person or entity that has risen to prominence or success, often suddenly and with little prior experience. Upstarts are typically associated with entrepreneurship, innovations, and new ventures that challenge established norms and competitors. They are often characterized by their fresh ideas and willingness to take risks in pursuit of growth and recognition.

Synonyms

disrupter, entrepreneur, innovator, newcomer, riser.

Examples of usage

  • The tech industry is full of upstarts that disrupt traditional companies.
  • He became a successful upstart after launching his app.
  • The restaurant was an upstart in a city dominated by old establishments.

Translations

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Interesting Facts

Pop Culture

  • The concept of an 'upstart' is frequently featured in movies and books, where a character rises from humble beginnings to achieve greatness.
  • Upstarting characters often break conventional norms, showcasing the spirit of ambition, as seen in stories like 'The Pursuit of Happyness'.

Business

  • In the startup ecosystem, an upstart company is often characterized by its disruptive approach, challenging established industries.
  • The rapid growth of tech companies in the 21st century exemplifies the upstarting phenomenon, where small teams innovate and scale quickly.

Literature

  • Many works of fiction explore the themes of ambition and rise to power, often portraying protagonists who start with little and become influential.
  • Classic novels like 'Great Expectations' by Charles Dickens depict characters who are upstart, challenging their societal roles through determination.

Psychology

  • Upstarting individuals can sometimes experience imposter syndrome, where they doubt their achievements despite evident success.
  • The excitement of new beginnings can lead to increased motivation and confidence, particularly in competitive environments.

Origin of 'upstarting'

Main points about word origin

  • The word comes from Middle English, combining 'up' indicating direction and 'start', which means to begin.
  • In historical contexts, the prefix 'up-' often suggests improvement or elevation, making the meaning imply a rise in status.

The word 'upstart' originated in the late 15th century, combining the prefix 'up' denoting a direction, with 'start,' which used to mean to leap or jump. Initially, the term had a somewhat derogatory connotation, referring to someone of humble origins who had risen to a higher social or economic status, often perceived as presumptuous or arrogant. The usage of 'upstart' evolved over the centuries, shedding some of its negative implications, particularly in business contexts, where it began to be associated more with innovation and ambition. By the 19th century, upstart had come to represent individuals or businesses that challenge traditional barriers and industries, Most notably in entrepreneurship, where upstarts are recognized for their disruptive potential in the market. In todayโ€™s context, the term is commonly used to describe new companies or entrepreneurs who quickly gain attention and market share, juxtaposed against the more established players in their field.