noun Uncommon

upkeep

UHP-keep

Upkeep (noun) means the ongoing work or cost of keeping something in good condition. Example: “The upkeep of an old house can be expensive.”

noun

The ongoing work or cost of keeping something in good condition.

"The upkeep of an old house can be expensive."

"Garden upkeep takes a few hours every weekend."

How to Use Upkeep

Learner’s notes

In plain EnglishWhat it takes — time, money, or effort — to maintain something properly.

Common pairings

cost of upkeep property upkeep regular upkeep

Word Forms

upkept past tense, upkeeps plural, upkeeps singular

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Fill the Gap

Can you complete this real example?

The _____ of an old house can be expensive.

Etymology

From up + keep.

Rhymes for upkeep

eep keep weep deep seep peep Jeep beep meep creep sheep sleep

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Frequently Asked Questions

What does “upkeep” mean?

The word “upkeep” means the ongoing work or cost of keeping something in good condition. In plain terms, what it takes — time, money, or effort — to maintain something properly.

How do you pronounce “upkeep”?

“Upkeep” is pronounced UHP-keep (/ˈʌpkip/ in IPA).

How do you use “upkeep” in a sentence?

Here is “upkeep” used in a sentence: “The upkeep of an old house can be expensive.”

What part of speech is “upkeep”?

“Upkeep” is a noun.

Is “upkeep” a common word?

“Upkeep” is an uncommon word in modern English.