upon

1 of 2

preposition

up·​on ə-ˈpȯn How to pronounce upon (audio)
-ˈpän
: on

upon

2 of 2

adverb

up·​on ə-ˈpȯn How to pronounce upon (audio)
-ˈpän
1
obsolete : on the surface : on it
2
obsolete : thereafter, thereon

Examples of upon in a Sentence

Preposition He carefully placed the vase upon the table. They built their city upon a cliff overlooking the sea. She was seated upon a throne. an assault upon traditional values She was admitted to his office immediately upon her arrival. That kind of behavior is frowned upon.
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.
Preposition
Head-down, unwavering movement toward the finish line is a great characteristic to call upon for career goals and long distances on a trail. Outside Online, 30 Oct. 2024 Certain aspects of the island’s past remain controversial, with some historical narratives being frowned upon or left largely unacknowledged. Shelby Stewart, Essence, 24 Oct. 2024 The rest of the rotation (Jeff Roberson / Associated Press) Unlike the Dodgers, the Yankees have some rotation depth to call upon in a longer series. Jack Harris, Los Angeles Times, 21 Oct. 2024 The partnership with Sixth Street will build upon and accelerate the company’s growth into new live event markets, including sports and food and beverage, while maintaining its position in music merchandise. Sportico Staff, Sportico.com, 11 Oct. 2024 See all Example Sentences for upon 

Word History

First Known Use

Preposition

12th century, in the meaning defined above

Adverb

13th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of upon was in the 12th century

Dictionary Entries Near upon

Cite this Entry

“Upon.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/upon. Accessed 24 Nov. 2024.

Kids Definition

upon

preposition
up·​on
ə-ˈpȯn,
-ˈpän,
-(ˌ)pən

More from Merriam-Webster on upon

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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