Upward

/ˈʌp.wɚd/

Meaning & Definition

adjective
Directed or moving toward a higher place or position.
The balloon floated upward into the sky.
Increasing in amount, value, or level.
The company reported upward trends in sales this quarter.
adverb
Toward a higher place or position.
She looked upward to see the stars twinkling.
In a direction that implies improvement or increase.
The economy is trending upward after the recent reforms.

Etymology

Old English 'upweard', combining 'up' and the suffix '-ward' denoting direction.

Common Phrases and Expressions

upward mobility
the ability to improve one's social or economic status.
look upward
to direct one's gaze above, often towards something higher.
upward trend
an increase or progression in a positive direction.

Related Words

uplift
to raise or improve.
ascend
to move upward.
rise
to go up.

Slang Meanings

up
Things are looking up for him after landing that job.
up in the air
His future is still up in the air after the layoffs.