Words / B2

UPK-eep/ˈʌpkiːp/

Upkeep is the work or cost of keeping a building, machine, or place in good condition (usually uncountable): the upkeep of; upkeep costs. Maintenance is a close twin; running costs are broader. Quote the upkeep cost in the budget, then the year. Mix-up: upkeep vs keep up; upkeep vs upbringing (this batch); do not write upkeep for buying a new machine.

Meaning

The work or cost of keeping a building, machine, or place in good condition (usually uncountable).

Examples

• “Quote the upkeep cost in the budget, then the year, the business paper said.”
• “Listed-building upkeep featured in the planning note, which is still a named duty — quote the £ if given.”

Good to know

the upkeep of; upkeep costs. Close: maintenance / running repairs. Trap: keep up / upbringing / a new purchase. Business, DT, and geography. Keeping it in repair — quote £ or the named duty.

Near in meaning

maintenance, running costs, care

New