Synonyms of upkeep

upkeep

noun

ˈəp-ˌkēp 

as in maintenance

the act or activity of keeping something in an existing and usually satisfactory condition

the upkeep of the old place was costing a fortune

Synonyms & Similar Words

• maintenance
• preservation
• preserving
• conservation
• keep
• conserving
• sustentation
• care and feeding
• support
• conservancy
• sustaining
• protection
• guardianship
• custody
• defense
• safekeeping
• guarding
• safeguarding
• care

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

• neglect
• negligence
• disregard
• ignoring
• damage
• destruction
• injury
• inattention
• harm
• demolition
• dereliction
• ruin
• hurt
• ruination

Example Sentences

Recent Examples of upkeep

Plastic surgery and inflationary beauty standards impose dizzying upkeep. — Margaret Talbot, New Yorker, 21 Sep. 2026

Operating as a bed and breakfast in recent years, the residence has undergone an impressive preservation campaign that added geothermal heating and cooling, updates to the electrical system, and upkeep of the wood finishes. — Richard Lane, Des Moines Register, 21 Sep. 2026

But in many places, the fees are rising quickly as HOAs contend with higher upkeep, labor, and insurance costs. — The Week Us, TheWeek, 16 Sep. 2026

Installation costs are steep, and the upkeep can feel never-ending. — Angelika Pokovba, Martha Stewart, 16 Sep. 2026