uphold
verb (used with object)
to support or defend, as against opposition or criticism.
have upheld
-
present perfectof uphold.present perfect
Used to describe actions that started in the past and continue into or have direct relevance to the present.
Example Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
Top courts in Arizona, Florida, North Carolina and West Virginia have upheld choice programs.
From The Wall Street Journal ● Feb. 12, 2026
Though the foundations that have upheld nuclear limits are being shaken, several experts pointed out that we have lived through periods when treaties weren’t in force, yet mutual restraint prevailed.
From Slate ● Feb. 2, 2026
"We are confident we have upheld these principles throughout," a party spokesman added.
From BBC ● Jun. 8, 2025
Previous Supreme Courts, whether dominated by liberals or conservatives, have upheld birthright citizenship on numerous occasions, starting with the 1898 Wong Kim Ark case.
From Salon ● Feb. 16, 2024
Malherbe, it has been neatly said, would have upheld the contrary doctrine that "learning without natural talents can accomplish more than natural talents without learning."
From A History of Literary Criticism in the Renaissance With special reference to the influence of Italy in the formation and development of modern classicism by Joel Elias Spingarn
