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

That measure established five metro districts — special, property-specific taxing entities with the power to take on $1.2 billion in debt to pay for the construction and upkeep of infrastructure around the arena. —Joe Rubino, The Denver Post, 21 Oct. 2024

The platform requires little upkeep and few employees. —Stephen Pastis, Forbes, 21 Oct. 2024

Down-sizing is certainly a popular trend, especially among retirees and those who prefer off-the-grid living, and prefab tiny homes offer the simplicity of minimalist living without the tedious amounts of upkeep of a regular home. —Christina Shepherd McGuire, Southern Living, 19 Oct. 2024

This honey-like formula is also great for post-perm upkeep. —Devon Abelman, Allure, 2 Oct. 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