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

Vacant properties require ongoing upkeep to prevent deterioration. —David Crown, Forbes, 4 Dec. 2024

Auburns and reds are notoriously tricky in terms of upkeep and require touch-ups every six to eight weeks. —Danielle Sinay, Glamour, 26 Nov. 2024

Recent photographs indicate that the Royal Lodge is in dire need of repairs as the prince struggles to maintain its costly upkeep. —Stephanie Nolasco, Fox News, 19 Nov. 2024

These devastating natural disasters are increasing property insurance costs and upkeep on older buildings. —Peter S. Sachs, Sun Sentinel, 18 Nov. 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