Upwards Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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upwards

[ˈʌpwərdz ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Adverb

direction

Moving, pointing, or facing towards a higher position or level.

Synonyms

skyward, toward the top, upward.

Examples of usage

  • The arrow was pointing upwards towards the sky.
  • She looked upwards and saw the stars shining brightly.
  • The temperature is expected to rise upwards in the coming days.
Context #2 | Adverb

increase

Increasing or becoming greater in amount or intensity.

Synonyms

escalating, increasingly, rising.

Examples of usage

  • The company's profits have been trending upwards in the last quarter.
  • The number of participants is expected to grow upwards for the event.
  • Prices have been going upwards due to high demand.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Science

  • In physics, 'upwards' can refer to the direction against the force of gravity.
  • Birds and airplanes move upwards to escape predators or to find warmer air currents.
  • Plants grow upwards toward sunlight, a process called phototropism, which is essential for their survival.

Literature

  • In poetry, 'upwards' is often used to symbolize hope, aspiration, and growth.
  • Classic novels sometimes depict characters climbing mountains or ascending to reflect their personal journeys and struggles.
  • Metaphorical uses of 'upwards' can evoke feelings of rising above challenges.

Pop Culture

  • Songs like 'Upwards' and 'Rise Up' have been popular, often conveying themes of perseverance and motivation.
  • In movies, characters often physically go upwards during their journey to signify triumph, like climbing a mountain.
  • The upward trend in certain fashion styles or technology trends can indicate what's becoming popular.

Psychology

  • Feeling 'upwards' in terms of mood can indicate a positive mental state, linked to aspects of happiness and motivation.
  • People often associate upward movement with ambition, as in striving for better situations in life.
  • The visual representation of 'upwards' is linked with hope and aspiration in psychological studies.

Origin of 'upwards'

Main points about word origin

  • 'Upwards' comes from the Old English word 'upweard', which means 'toward up'.
  • It is formed by combining 'up', meaning higher, and the suffix '-wards', which indicates direction.
  • The word has been in use for many centuries, showing how humans have always looked to the sky.

The word 'upwards' originated from the Middle English word 'upward,' which was a combination of 'up' and the suffix '-ward,' indicating direction. The use of 'upwards' has been prevalent in English language for centuries, with its meaning evolving to represent both physical direction and increase in amount or intensity.


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

Word Frequency Rank

At #5,302 in frequency, this word belongs to advanced vocabulary. It's less common than core vocabulary but important for sophisticated expression.