upward mobility

noun

: the capacity or facility for rising to a higher social or economic position

upwardly mobile adjective

Examples of upward mobility in a Sentence

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.

Leveling this playing field and giving people more opportunities for full-time employment is essential to help families build wealth and achieve upward mobility. —

Vince Toye, Forbes, 2 Dec. 2024 Yes, but: Nonprofit Leading on Opportunities argues transportation is crucial to boosting upward mobility and removing barriers for low-income communities, especially areas like Nations Ford and Arrowood roads. —

Alexandria Sands, Axios, 17 Oct. 2024 Removing these resources could widen existing disparities, undermining educational access, affordability, and upward mobility for Black Americans. —

Jameelah Nasheed, Essence, 6 Nov. 2024 There doesn’t even seem to be the possibility for upward mobility. —

Scott Tobias, Vulture, 9 Oct. 2024 See all Example Sentences for upward mobility

Word History

First Known Use

1949, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler

The first known use of upward mobility was in 1949

See more words from the same year

Cite this Entry

Style

“Upward mobility.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/upward%20mobility. Accessed 17 Dec. 2024.

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