upkeep

noun

up·​keep ˈəp-ˌkēp How to pronounce upkeep (audio)
1
: the act of maintaining in good condition : the state of being maintained in good condition
2
: the cost of maintaining in good condition

Examples of upkeep in a Sentence

Who is responsible for the upkeep of these buildings? Once your car gets that old, the cost of upkeep can get very expensive. The yard requires very little upkeep. We sold our horse because we could no longer afford its upkeep.
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
The city continues to spend millions annually on building upkeep and security, although the office tower is empty and uninhabitable in its current state. Jennifer Van Grove, San Diego Union-Tribune, 20 July 2025 Rent increases most commonly happen as property upkeep and repair costs increase. Nathan Miller, Forbes.com, 15 July 2025 Orleans Parish is asking for $15 million in limited tax bonds to use for upkeep of jails and replacing security and surveillance equipment. Emilee Calametti, The Washington Examiner, 13 July 2025 In addition to all the standard features that come with such a machine, this model has washable filters and an installation kit for streamlined upkeep and setup. Yelena Moroz Alpert, Architectural Digest, 9 July 2025 See All Example Sentences for upkeep

Word History

First Known Use

1884, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of upkeep was in 1884

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Cite this Entry

“Upkeep.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/upkeep. Accessed 25 Jul. 2025.

Kids Definition

upkeep

noun
up·​keep ˈəp-ˌkēp How to pronounce upkeep (audio)
: the act or cost of maintaining in good condition : maintenance

More from Merriam-Webster on upkeep

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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