upcycle

verb

up·​cy·​cle ˈəp-ˌsī-kəl 

upcycled; upcycling

transitive verb

: to recycle (something) in such a way that the resulting product is of a higher value than the original item : to create an object of greater value from (a discarded object of lesser value)

The line upcycles single-use plastic bags that are cleaned and brought in from Bali, Indonesia, and parts of California for use as the main material in the shoes. In the company's first year more than 175,000 plastic bags were reused to create footwear and accessories.

—Melissa Magsaysay

upcycling noun

Examples of upcycle in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

While upcycling, repair and recycling programs are a good start, Aus said ultimately, the apparel industry has to address the problems of over-production and overconsumption largely driving by fast fashion. —Jennifer Bringle, Sourcing Journal, 19 Mar. 2026

Instead of simply disposing of plastic, this approach upcycles environmental waste into a high-value medical resource, thereby reducing the industry’s ecological footprint while benefiting human health. —Mrigakshi Dixit, Interesting Engineering, 16 Mar. 2026

However, Chrissy Handley, a lawn care specialist with Online Turf, thinks that upcycling your recyclables in this way is a quirky, sustainable way to care for your plants and bring a rustic charm to your landscape. —Alexandra Kelly, Martha Stewart, 11 Mar. 2026

In a similar spirit of upcycling, his exhibition shows Rose Salane’s newest project from Pompeii featuring rocks and other ephemera taken from the historic site. —Tyler Matthew Oyer feb. 27, Los Angeles Times, 27 Feb. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1994, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for upcycle

• cycle
• motorcycle
• recycle