Definition

To encourage a customer to purchase additional items or upgrades beyond what they originally planned to buy.

Example

The salesperson tried to upsell the customer by suggesting a more expensive model of the phone.

Tense Forms

Conversation

I noticed the salesperson tried to upsell me on those extra features.

Really? What did they say?

They suggested I get the premium version for just a little more money.

That’s interesting, but sometimes it’s better to stick with what you need.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Upsell → The word is formed from "up" (meaning higher or increased) and "sell" (from Old English *sellan*, meaning to give or deliver). The term refers to the practice of encouraging customers to purchase a more expensive item or add-ons, thus increasing the sale value.

Memory Tip

Think of 'up' meaning higher and 'sell' meaning to deliver — upselling is about delivering a higher value to the customer.

Visually Confused Words