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.
And these funds support upkeep for library buildings — a cost libraries struggle on their own to handle. The Editorial Board, Chicago Tribune, 13 Apr. 2025 The group, which is the only one of its kind among the post towns in Kiso, also oversees the upkeep of the old-style buildings to maintain the Edo atmosphere. Haley Harrison, AFAR Media, 10 Apr. 2025 Regardless of his wish that nothing goes to waste, the architect realizes that the decision may hinge on the funding required for upkeep and future events. Hanako Montgomery, CNN Money, 10 Apr. 2025 As such, belts are great for people who aren’t keen on keeping up with day-to-day maintenance and would prefer a periodic pop-in to a shop for upkeep. Chris Cona, ArsTechnica, 9 Apr. 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 22 Apr. 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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