upswing

American  

[uhp-swing, uhp-swing] / ˈʌpˌswɪŋ, ʌpˈswɪŋ /

noun

1. an upward swing or swinging movement, as of a pendulum.

2. a marked increase or improvement.

   an upswing in stock prices.

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verb (used without object)

upswung, upswinging

1. to make or undergo an upswing.

upswing British  

noun

1. economics a recovery period in the trade cycle

2. an upward swing or movement or any increase or improvement

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verb

1. (intr) to swing or move up

Usage

What does on the upswing mean? The expression on the upswing refers to something in the process of improving or increasing. It’s often used in the context of economics. How is on the upswing pronounced?[ on thuh uhp-swing ]What are some other words related to on the upswing?

• uptick
• success
• streak
• downswing

Etymology

Origin of upswing

First recorded in 1920–25; up- + swing ¹

Explanation

An upswing is a period of improvement or growth, like the upswing in a town's population that results in an upswing in its economy. An upswing is also a literal upward swing of the arms, the way you move a jump rope or golf club. The golf meaning dates from 1922. The first figurative use of upswing in 1934, during the Great Depression, described economic improvements that were on the horizon. If you've ever had a period of bad luck, you know how it feels when life seems to finally be on the upswing, becoming a little bit better every day.

Example Sentences

Later in the week aerial company Upswing are at the Albany with What Happens in the Winter, which looks at what happens as you grow older in a culture where youth is idolised.

From The Guardian • Apr. 22, 2013

Upswing ask the question in the aerial show What Happens in the Winter at Stockton Arts Centre.

From The Guardian • Mar. 15, 2013

Upswing in Meat U.S. farmers and ranchers will market 35% more meat this year than in 1929, the Department of Agriculture announced happily last week.

From Time Magazine Archive

Related Words

• upturn