uphold

Definition

To hold up; to lift on high; to elevate.

Etymology

From Middle English upholden, equivalent to up- + hold. Compare Dutch ophouden (“to stop, cease, hold up”), German aufhalten (“to stop, halt, detain”). Compare also Middle Low German upholt, Old Norse upphald (“uphold, support”).

Example Sentences

• "The mournful train/ Echoed her grief, [...]/ With groans, and hands upheld, to move his mind, /Besought his pity to their helpless kind"
• "A man's pride shall bring him low: but honour shall uphold the humble in spirit."
• "That misbegotten devil, Falconbridge, /In spite of spite, alone upholds the day."