upkeep

noun

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

Synonyms

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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.
Orange County and the city of Apopka also have a potential role to play in the cemetery’s upkeep, though Bangerter-Tarassenko said her pleas have led to little progress. — Brian Bell, The Orlando Sentinel, 28 July 2025 Yale Art Gallery has provided steady upkeep for the sculpture, but constant exposure to the outdoors and natural erosion have done damage that only a full-scale restoration activity will help. — Christopher Arnott, Hartford Courant, 26 July 2025 Her disability check was not enough to cover medical expenses and the upkeep required for the house — let alone the $855 monthly mortgage. — ProPublica, 20 July 2025 For example, maintenance workers for machinery perform routine upkeep, which could be automated, however, more intricate repairs requires human expertise. — The Hill, 11 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

Rhymes for upkeep

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Browse Nearby Words

up Jenkins
upkeep
upland
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Cite this Entry

“Upkeep.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/upkeep. Accessed 13 Aug. 2025.

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Kids Definition

upkeep

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

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Nglish: Translation of upkeep for Spanish Speakers

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