Definition of upholdnext

Synonym Chooser

How is the word uphold different from other verbs like it?

Some common synonyms of uphold are advocate, back, champion, and support. While all these words mean "to favor actively one that meets opposition," uphold implies extended support given to something attacked.

upheld the legitimacy of the military action

When is advocate a more appropriate choice than uphold?

While the synonyms advocate and uphold are close in meaning, advocate stresses urging or pleading.

advocated prison reform

When is it sensible to use back instead of uphold?

The meanings of back and uphold largely overlap; however, back suggests supporting by lending assistance to one failing or falling.

refusing to back the call for sanctions

When might champion be a better fit than uphold?

The synonyms champion and uphold are sometimes interchangeable, but champion suggests publicly defending one unjustly attacked or too weak to advocate his or her own cause.

championed the rights of children

In what contexts can support take the place of uphold?

While in some cases nearly identical to uphold, support is least explicit about the nature of the assistance given.

supports waterfront development

Example Sentences

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.
Recent Examples of uphold Other discounters step up Spirit’s other rivals in the discount category also have been conspicuous in their additions, essentially upholding the airport’s tradition of being the state’s mainstay for budget carriers. David Lyons, Sun Sentinel, 22 June 2026 Whether this Supreme Court, which in the redistricting world has sided against fair elections, will see its way to uphold these limits is far from certain. Richard J. Davis, New York Daily News, 21 June 2026 But Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesperson Esmail Baghaei told state TV that negotiations toward a final agreement would begin once key commitments are upheld. Kareem Chehayeb, Los Angeles Times, 20 June 2026 Israel and Hamas have accused each other for violating the truce and failing to uphold its terms. Mirna Alsharif, NBC news, 20 June 2026 See All Example Sentences for uphold
Recent Examples of Synonyms for uphold
Verb
  • Mercury star and Bonner's girlfriend Alyssa Thomas rushed in to defend Bonner.
    Alejandro Avila OutKick, FOXNews.com, 23 June 2026
  • Trump had campaigned on border and immigration control but also had defended the need for foreign workers.
    Ignacio Calderon, USA Today, 23 June 2026
Verb
  • Those who have sustained a severe burn or dirty wound should follow up with a booster after five years, according to the CDC.
    Faye Chiu, CNN Money, 23 June 2026
  • The driver of the bus sustained minor injuries.
    Caroline Zimmerman, Kansas City Star, 23 June 2026
Verb
  • Woo started the game with three hitless innings, but then fell apart in the fourth and was lifted at the end of the inning.
    CBS News, CBS News, 25 June 2026
  • On Saturday, following the progress on the peace deal, the austerity measures had been lifted, according to local media reports.
    Priyanka Salve, CNBC, 25 June 2026
Verb
  • Anguay said in a statement that she was humbled by the appointment, and said the utility would maintain its focus on providing safe, reliable power at affordable rates.
    Sacbee.com, Sacbee.com, 24 June 2026
  • And as sweat pours out, the loss of fluids reduces blood volume, meaning your heart is forced to pump even harder to maintain blood pressure.
    Taylor Ward, CNN Money, 24 June 2026
Verb
  • Once, there was a showdown with another tour bus — one presumably not carrying theatergoers.
    Los Angeles Times, Los Angeles Times, 22 June 2026
  • The spacious purse comes with two strap options, so it can also be carried as a crossbody.
    Rachel Trujillo, PEOPLE, 22 June 2026
Verb
  • Relatives identified the food vendor as Arabelia Martinez, 62, and have raised more than $100,000 to pay for therapy and replace the items damaged in the incident.
    Ruben Vives, Los Angeles Times, 26 June 2026
  • Jake embraced his stepparent role wholeheartedly and helped raise Alex alongside Antonio and Rochelle.
    Samantha Stutsman, PEOPLE, 26 June 2026
Verb
  • This looser-fitting top sits right at the waistband and is made of a durable nylon and elastane blend that resists wear and tear (justifying the price point).
    Katie Jackson, Travel + Leisure, 22 June 2026
  • Whatever happens for the remainder of this World Cup cannot be used to justify a system that has nothing to do with development, or kids playing sports.
    Mac Engel June 22, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 22 June 2026
Verb
  • The organization is seeking investors willing to accept modest returns in exchange for preserving historic buildings, supporting local businesses and maintaining the character of West Marin communities.
    Kenny Choi, CBS News, 26 June 2026
  • Clear expectations help everyone support your goals.
    Tarot.com, Baltimore Sun, 26 June 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Uphold.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/uphold. Accessed 26 Jun. 2026.

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