Upper
ˈʌpər
Definitions
3 meaningsLocated above something else; higher in position.
ˈʌpər
Being in a higher position or level
The upper shelf is out of reach.
💡 Simply: Imagine a bunk bed! The upper bunk is the upper part, right? This word describes anything that's higher or above something else. Like the upper part of a mountain, or the upper handle on a door.
👶 For kids: It means 'on top' or 'higher up'. Like the top of a tall building, or the hand that you hold above your head.
More Examples
The upper class enjoys certain privileges.
She lives on the upper floor.
How It's Used
"The upper floor of the building."
"The upper limbs of the body."
The part of a shoe or boot that covers the foot.
ˈʌpər
The part of a shoe above the sole
The quality of the upper determines the shoe's durability.
💡 Simply: When you buy shoes, the upper is the part that goes over your foot! It's not the sole that touches the ground. It's the top part.
👶 For kids: The part of your shoe that covers your foot, like a hat for your foot!
More Examples
He polished the uppers of his boots.
The leather uppers are often more expensive than the soles.
How It's Used
"The shoe's upper was made of fine leather."
"The factory specializes in manufacturing shoe uppers."
To raise, lift, or increase something.
ˈʌpər
To raise or lift
She upped her bet in the poker game.
💡 Simply: Imagine you're trying to lift something, or make something go higher. 'Upper' can sometimes mean to move something in a upward direction, or increase it. For instance, you may be asked to 'upper' a price.
👶 For kids: To make something go up! Like lifting your hand higher.
More Examples
The company decided to upper the price of their product due to rising material costs.
The news report noted that inflation is expected to upper in the coming months.
How It's Used
"She upped her chin defiantly."
Synonyms
Higher
Over
Superior
Top
Elevate
Increase
Lift
Raise
Idioms & expressions
up and about
Active; out of bed, especially after an illness.
"After the flu, she was finally up and about."
the upper hand
Advantage or control.
"In this negotiation, they definitely have the upper hand."
From Old English *uppera, comparative of upp (up).
The word 'upper' has been used in English since the Old English period, with its core meaning related to position.