Intermediate (B1)
IPA: /ˈʌp.raɪt/
KK: /ˈʌpˌraɪt/
Definition
In a vertical position or standing straight; also refers to being morally correct or honest.
Example
He always tries to be an upright person in his dealings with others.
Comparatives & Superlatives
Comparative: more upright
Superlative: most upright
Conversation

I noticed you always sit so upright during class.

Yeah, I find it helps me focus better on the lecture.

That's smart! I should try to sit more upright too.

Definitely! It makes a big difference in how much you absorb.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Antonyms
crooked
dishonest
horizontal
Definition
In a vertical position; standing or sitting straight up.
Example
She prefers to walk upright rather than slouching.
Conversation

I saw you walking in the park earlier, and you looked so upright and confident.

Thanks! I was trying to maintain good posture while enjoying the fresh air.

It really does make a difference to walk upright like that.
Definition
A position or state where something is vertical or standing straight up.
Example
The artist painted a beautiful picture of an upright piano.
Conversation

Have you ever played an upright piano before?

Yeah, I love the sound of those!

I think they have a unique charm compared to regular pianos.
Definition
To put something back in a vertical position after it has fallen or been turned over.
Example
The workers uprighted the fallen sign after the storm.
Tense Forms
Past: uprighted
Past Participle: uprighted
Conversation

Did you see that accident on the road today?

Yeah, it was crazy! I heard they had to upright the car before they could tow it away.

That must have been quite a scene to watch.
Root Explanation
Upright → It is formed from "up" (meaning in a higher position) and "right" (from Old English "riht", meaning correct or straight). The word "upright" describes a position that is both elevated and correct, standing straight up.
Memory Tip
Think of being in a 'higher position' ('up') and 'correct' ('right') — that's what upright means.
Visually Confused Words
unupright
uplight
unright
right
upstraight
upbrighten
nonupright
unbright