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Definition of upend

upend

/ʌpˈɛnd/
up · end
Adjective:upended
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Past Simple:upended
•
Past Participle:upended
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Present Participle:upending
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upend Lexical Profile

upend Game Scores & Validity

• verb

1

To drastically alter, disrupt, or overthrow (an established system, plan, or expectation).

Example

"The sudden emergence of digital streaming completely upended the traditional music industry."

2

To set or turn (something) on its end or upside down.

Example

"The toddler upended the toy box, scattering wooden blocks across the living room rug."

Synonyms
View all synonyms for upend
Antonyms
View all antonyms for upend

• Rhymes for upend

• Nearby Words

updater
updo
updraft
upend
upfield
upfront
upgradability

Word Origin & Etymology

Formed in the early 19th century as a compound of the English words 'up' and 'end', originally meaning to set a barrel or similar object upright on its end.

Cite this Entry

Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Upend. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/upend
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