uphill

American  

[uhp-hil, uhp-hil] / ˈʌpˈhɪl, ˈʌpˌhɪl /

adverb

1. up or as if up the slope of a hill or other incline; upward.

   The soldiers marched uphill. Water does not run uphill without assistance.

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adjective

1. going or tending upward on or as if on a hill.

   an uphill road.

2. at a high place or point.

   an uphill village.

3. laboriously fatiguing or difficult.

   an uphill struggle to become wealthy.

   Synonyms:

   grueling, taxing, strenuous, hard, arduous

noun

1. a rising terrain; ascent.

uphill British  

/ ˈʌpˈhɪl /

adjective

1. inclining, sloping, or leading upwards

2. requiring arduous and protracted effort

   an uphill task

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adverb

1. up an incline or slope; upwards

2. against difficulties

noun

1. a rising incline; ascent

Etymology

Origin of uphill

First recorded in 1540–50; up- + hill

Example Sentences

“It’s a claim that, under current law, just isn’t supported by the facts... — and the Supreme Court just turned a dramatically uphill case into Everest.”

From Los Angeles Times

As atmospheric warming continues, cracks are forming farther uphill, affecting increasingly larger sections of the glacier.

From Science Daily

But before you can soak in Santa Barbara County’s highly popular Montecito Hot Springs, you’ll need to hike a little over a mile uphill, threading your way among boulders, oaks and a meandering creek.

From Los Angeles Times

It has been an uphill battle, and Koerner is visibly moved as he brings his dog, Daisy, back home.

From Barron's

Independent and women-led films face an uphill battle, particularly if they are not fronted by big stars.

From BBC

Related Words

• arduous
• exhausting
• grueling
• punishing
• strenuous