upkeep

noun

ˈəp-ˌkēp How to pronounce upkeep (audio)
Definition of upkeepnext
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

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Antonyms & Near Antonyms

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 upkeep One part of the family might visit every summer, while others hardly come at all, but everyone is still responsible for upkeep. — Jim Dobson, Forbes.com, 21 Aug. 2026 Artificial wildflowers for a softer, seasonal accent that skips the upkeep of fresh cuts. — Lauren Jarvis-Gibson, Sacbee.com, 19 Aug. 2026 These scratch-, scuff-, and microbe-resistant surfaces simplify cleaning and everyday upkeep. — Better Homes & Gardens, 14 Aug. 2026 Pears are easy-going trees that require minimal upkeep and can flourish without extensive pruning. — Sj McShane, Martha Stewart, 12 Aug. 2026 See All Example Sentences for upkeep
Recent Examples of Synonyms for upkeep
  1. maintenance
  2. preservation
  3. preserving
Noun
  • This gives it a homier feel without the weight or maintenance of actual tile.
    — New Atlas, New Atlas, 2 Sep. 2026
  • Consumers may need to weigh price against factors like car age and mileage — and the potential for costly repairs and maintenance, experts said.
    — Sarah Agostino, CNBC, 1 Sep. 2026
Definition of maintenance
Noun
  • The country is more vulnerable to an oil slump than many other producers, making its defense of prices and preservation of OPEC’s relevance a priority.
    — Wael Mahdi, semafor.com, 3 Sep. 2026
  • The property now has a preservation easement on it, which requires the owner to maintain the historic property.
    — Desiree Mathurin, Charlotte Observer, 3 Sep. 2026
Definition of preservation
Noun
  • There are solutions for age verification that are both accurate and privacy preserving.
    — Annie Chestnut Tutor, Boston Herald, 18 Aug. 2025
Definition of preserving

Browse Nearby Words

up in the air
upkeep
upland
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Upkeep.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/upkeep. Accessed 4 Sep. 2026.

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