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

Sports sedans depreciate like 4,500 pound rocks and the main driver is a fear of steep repair and upkeep costs. —Christian Gilbertsen, Robb Report, 13 Feb. 2025

The University of Minnesota also is requesting $200 million for upkeep and repairs for infrastructure. —Peter Cox, Twin Cities, 12 Feb. 2025

Every street-side spot uses public land and takes up resources for its upkeep. —Christopher Bonanos, Curbed, 11 Feb. 2025

Beyond upkeep of a mall, owners must seek redevelopment opportunities such as working with schools like Liberty STEAM. —Catherine Muccigrosso, Charlotte Observer, 28 Jan. 2025

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