Uphold

Definition

Uphold means to support or maintain a principle, decision, or course of action, especially in the face of challenges or opposition.

Parts of Speech

• Verb

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ʌpˈhoʊld/
• Respelling: uhp-HOHLD (with "uhp" as in "cup" and "HOHLD" rhyming with "bold")

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ʌpˈhəʊld/
• Respelling: uhp-HOHLD (similar to American English, with "uhp" as in "cup" and "HOHLD" like in "bold")

In both dialects, "uphold" is pronounced with an initial "uhp" sound, similar to the 'up' in "cup," followed by "HOHLD," which rhymes with "bold." The primary difference might be in the subtle nuances of vowel quality, particularly in the first syllable, but overall the pronunciation is quite similar in both American and British English.

Etymology

The term "uphold" is formed from the combination of "up-" indicating direction and "hold" which originates from the Old English "healdan" meaning "to hold, grasp, or keep". Essentially, it denotes the action of holding or maintaining something in an elevated or supported state.

Derivatives

• Upholder
• Upholdance
• Upholding
• Upholdment
• Non-upholding

Synonyms

• Support
• Maintain
• Back

Antonyms

• Contradict
• Oppose
• Undermine

Usage

• "The court decided to uphold the previous judgment."
• "It's essential for leaders to uphold their promises to gain trust."

Related Terms

• Support
• Maintain
• Stand by

Detailed Definition

Verb

• Support or Defend: To support or defend a principle, decision, or course of action, especially in the face of challenges or opposition.
• Example: The committee chose to uphold the rules and regulations strictly.

• Maintain in Force: To maintain or keep in force, such as a tradition or law.
• Example: They continued to uphold ancient customs despite modernization.

• Confirm or Validate: To confirm or validate a decision, especially in a higher court.
• Example: The Supreme Court upheld the lower court's decision.