upkeep

noun

up·​keep ˈəp-ˌkēp 

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

• care and feeding
• conservation
• conserving
• keep
• maintenance
• preservation
• preserving
• sustentation

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

Denver Parks and Recreation has scrambled to stay on top of upkeep in the city’s green spaces after temporary city budget cuts prompted by the migrant crisis delayed spring hiring, department officials say. —Joe Rubino, The Denver Post, 30 May 2024

Funds are used for upkeep of the state park system. —Stephen Underwood, Hartford Courant, 18 Jan. 2024

The unit is ideal for small outdoor spaces, or for anyone who doesn’t want to deal with the upkeep of a full-sized fire pit. —Clara McMahon, Peoplemag, 31 May 2024

The lagging upkeep is a lingering side effect as the city has eased up on the budget cutbacks ordered by Mayor Mike Johnston earlier this year. —Joe Rubino, The Denver Post, 30 May 2024

Word History

First Known Use

1884, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Kids Definition

upkeep

noun

up·​keep ˈəp-ˌkēp 

: the act or cost of maintaining in good condition : maintenance