WordGarden.ioupholder
A2Pronunciation
UK
- /ʌphˈəʊldə/
US
Meanings
Noun
a person who supports or defends a principle, law, tradition, or institution
Beyond the definition
An upholder is someone who strongly supports and defends something, such as a belief, a rule, a tradition, or a person's rights. The word often describes a person who does not just agree in private, but stands by that thing and helps protect it. For example, an upholder of justice supports fairness, and an upholder of tradition works to keep old customs alive. The word suggests loyalty, firmness, and a sense of duty. In older use, it could also refer to a person whose work involved household furnishings.
To be an upholder is to actively support, defend, and maintain something, whether it is a principle, a law, a tradition, or a person's rights. It goes beyond simply agreeing with something; it suggests taking action to protect it and keep it strong. For example, "She was a staunch upholder of women's suffrage" means that she strongly supported and defended women's right to vote.
The term suggests strength, reliability, and unwavering commitment. Upholders are often seen as guardians or protectors of important values. You might describe someone as an "upholder of the law" if they consistently enforce it fairly, or an "upholder of peace" if they work tirelessly to prevent conflict.
Historically, the word also had a more practical meaning. It could refer to a person connected with household furnishings, a sense that is related to the older trade word behind modern "upholsterer." That older use still reflects the basic idea of giving support and helping something stay in good condition.
So, whether it is defending a belief, enforcing a rule, or literally propping something up, an upholder is someone who stands firm in their commitment to preserving what they value.
Examples
- 1
Family traditions
Her grandfather was a strong upholder of family traditions.
- 2
Journalism standards
The editor saw herself as an upholder of high journalistic standards.
- 3
Legal system
In a democracy, courts are expected to be upholders of the law.
See also
Forms and spellings
1 form open this card.
Main spelling
- upholdernoun