uphold

[uhp-hohld]

verb (used with object)

upheld, upholding 

1. to support or defend, as against opposition or criticism.

   He fought the duel to uphold his family's honor.

2. to keep up or keep from sinking; support.

   Stout columns upheld the building's heavy roof. Her faith upheld her in that time of sadness.

3. to lift upward; raise.

   The pilgrims upheld their eyes and thanked heaven for their safe journey.

4. British.

   1. to upholster.

   2. to maintain in good condition; take care of.

uphold

/ ʌpˈhəʊld /

verb

1. to maintain, affirm, or defend against opposition or challenge

2. to give moral support or inspiration to

3. rare,  to support physically

4. to lift up

Other Word Forms

• upholder noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of uphold¹

First recorded in 1300–1350; Middle English upholden; up-, hold ¹

Example Sentences

If it had been upheld, this could have paved the way for millions to claim compensation, but the court ruled against two of the test cases, siding with finance companies.

From BBC

The Israeli foreign ministry's statement on Monday insisted that the flotilla activists' legal rights "were and will continue to be fully upheld".

From BBC

The purported officer urges military chief Jacob Mkunda to take action and ensure the country is united, and uphold citizen's rights.

From BBC

Signing this so-called deal isn’t just a betrayal of students, it’s a betrayal of the mission of every university worth its tuition, and a betrayal of the values that uphold our democracy.

From Los Angeles Times

He said it was his responsibility to “advance USC’s mission and uphold our core values.”

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• advocate 
• confirm 
• defend 
• encourage 
• endorse 
• hold to 
• justify 
• promote 
• side with 
• stand by 
• vindicate 

When To Use

What are other ways to say uphold?

To uphold something means to support it or defend it against opposition or criticism. How is uphold different from maintain, support, and sustain? Find out on Thesaurus.com.