Upstream

/ˌʌpˈstriːm/

Meaning & Definition

noun

An area or region located further up the river from a specific point.

The upstream has many untouched natural habitats.

adjective

Located or occurring in the direction against the flow of a river or stream.

The upstream area of the river is known for its clear water.

Referring to activities or processes that are earlier in a sequence.

The upstream production stages are critical for ensuring quality.

adverb

In the direction against the flow of a river or stream; toward the source.

The salmon swim upstream to spawn.

In a direction opposite to the flow of a process or current.

The engineers worked upstream to improve the design of the system.

Middle English, from up + stream; akin to Old English strēam.

swim upstream

To work against the flow or prevailing opinion.

upstream thinking

Considering the root causes or factors behind an issue.

downstream

In the direction in which a river or stream flows.

stream

A small, narrow river.

Going against popular trends or opinions.

She's always been upstream when it comes to fashion.

Referring to a challenging or difficult situation.

That project is really upstream without a paddle!