uphold
4 synonyms and 5 antonyms for uphold, grouped by meaning and by how common each one is.
Verb — To support or maintain something, such as a law, principle, or standard.
Synonyms
Everyday swaps
Common words most readers know — safe in any writing.
Rare, literary or technical
Precise, but they will stand out — check the sense before using one.
Antonyms
How to use uphold
The word patterns that sound natural to a native speaker.
uphold the law
uphold a decision
uphold standards
Etymology
From Middle English upholden, from up- + hold.
Full origin of uphold →Frequently asked questions
What does “uphold” mean?
The word “uphold” means to support or maintain something, such as a law, principle, or standard. In plain terms, to keep something standing, valid, or in force — a decision, a value, or a physical structure.
How do you pronounce “uphold”?
“Uphold” is pronounced uhp-HOHLD (/ˌʌpˈhəʊld/ in IPA).
How do you use “uphold” in a sentence?
Here is “uphold” used in a sentence: “The organization works to uphold human rights.”
What is another word for “uphold”?
Words with a similar meaning to “uphold” include vindicate.
What part of speech is “uphold”?
“Uphold” is a verb.
Where does the word “uphold” come from?
The word “uphold” comes from Middle English. From Middle English upholden, from up- + hold.
Is “uphold” a common word?
“Uphold” is an uncommon word in modern English.
How many meanings does “uphold” have?
“Uphold” has 2 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: to support or maintain something, such as a law, principle, or standard.
