How Do You Spell UPPER?

Pronunciation: [ˈʌpə] (IPA)

The spelling of the word "upper" can be explained using the International Phonetic Alphabet (IPA) transcription. The word is pronounced as /ˈʌpər/ with a short vowel sound /ʌ/ and a voiceless /p/ sound followed by a schwa /ə/ sound. The final /r/ is pronounced as a weakly articulated sound with no tension in the throat. The word "upper" refers to something located above or higher in position or ranking. It is commonly used in phrases like "upper class," "upper floor," or "upper hand."

UPPER Meaning and Definition

  1. Upper (adjective)

    1. Located higher in position or situated above something else in terms of elevation or height.

    Example: The upper shelf of the bookcase held all the novels.

    2. Relating to a higher or superior state, degree, rank, or level.

    Example: The upper class is usually associated with wealth and privilege.

    3. Referring to the part of something that is closest to the top or anterior section.

    Example: The upper lip quivered slightly as a sign of nervousness.

    4. Indicating the portion or division that is more northern or upstream.

    Example: The Upper Peninsula of Michigan is bordered by Lake Superior.

    5. Describing the later or final stages of a process or period of time.

    Example: The upper part of the stage involves the climax of the play.

    6. Expressing superiority or dominance in a physical or competitive context.

    Example: The boxer delivered an uppercut, striking his opponent's chin forcefully.

    7. Being the more recent or advanced part in a hierarchical or sequential order.

    Example: The upper model of the smartphone offers enhanced features and performance.

    8. Relating to the higher range of notes in music or a higher register in singing.

    Example: The singer's upper notes resonated beautifully throughout the concert hall.

    In summary, the adjective "upper" refers to being higher in position, rank, elevation, or division. It can also denote a superior state or level, an anterior part, a northern or upstream orientation, later stages, physical dominance, a more recent part, or the higher range in music.

  2. Higher in place; superior in rank or dignity.

    Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.

Top Common Misspellings for UPPER *

* The statistics data for these misspellings percentages are collected from over 15,411,110 spell check sessions on www.spellchecker.net from Jan 2010 - Jun 2012.

Other Common Misspellings for UPPER

Etymology of UPPER

The word "upper" dates back to Middle English and is derived from the Old English word "uppre", which is a comparative form of "upp", meaning "up". It is related to other Germanic languages, such as Old Norse ("yfir") and Dutch ("opper"), both of which also mean "upper". The root of the word can be traced back to the Proto-Germanic word "*ub". From Old English, the term "upper" has evolved over time to retain its meaning of something situated above or higher in position.

Idioms with the word UPPER

  • Keep a stiff upper lip. "Keep a stiff upper lip" is an idiom that means to remain strong and composed, especially in difficult or challenging situations. It encourages people to maintain a calm and resolute demeanor, not allowing their emotions to become easily visible or overwhelmed by adversity. It implies the ability to endure hardship with courage and dignity.
  • upper hand The idiom "upper hand" generally refers to having an advantage or control over a situation or over someone else. It can also indicate having more power, authority, or influence in a particular scenario.
  • have (or gain) the upper hand The idiom "have (or gain) the upper hand" means to have or achieve a position of advantage or superiority over someone else in a situation or conflict. It signifies having more control, influence, or power over the other person or group involved.
  • gain the upper hand To "gain the upper hand" means to obtain an advantageous or dominant position or situation, typically during a competition, argument, or conflict, giving one control or power over the other party. It implies having the advantage or achieving superiority over someone or something.
  • get the upper hand The idiom "get the upper hand" means to gain control or advantageous position in a situation, often by outwitting or outperforming others. It refers to having dominance or superiority over someone or a situation.
  • get, have, gain, etc. the upper hand The idiom "get, have, gain, etc. the upper hand" means to establish a position of advantage or control in a situation. It signifies having more power, influence, or dominance over others involved in a conflict, competition, or negotiation.
  • the upper crust The idiom "the upper crust" refers to the highest social class or highest levels of society. It is often used to describe those who are considered the elite or upper class, typically due to their wealth, influence, or social standing.
  • upper crust The idiom "upper crust" refers to a social class that is regarded as the highest or most prestigious in a society, often associated with wealth, high social status, and privilege. It signifies the elite or privileged segment of society.
  • stiff upper lip The idiom "stiff upper lip" refers to a person's ability to restrain or hide their emotions, especially in difficult or challenging situations. It denotes the idea of maintaining a composed and unyielding demeanor in the face of adversity or pain.
  • have the upper hand The idiom "have the upper hand" means to have an advantageous or controlling position in a situation or conflict. It refers to having more power, influence, or control over others, allowing one to have the advantage or be in a position of dominance.
  • a stiff upper lip The idiom "a stiff upper lip" refers to the British characteristic of showing emotional restraint, resilience, and courage in the face of adversity. It means maintaining a calm and composed demeanor, especially in challenging or difficult situations, without showing one's true emotions or feelings.

Similar spelling words for UPPER

Plural form of UPPER is UPPERS