c. 1200, "support, sustain," from up (adv.) + hold (v.). Similar formation in Old Frisian upholda, Middle Dutch ophouden, German aufhalten. Meaning "maintain in good condition or repair" is from 1570s. Related: Upheld; upholding.
The appellate court upheld the verdict
upgather
upgrade
upheaval
upheld
uphill
uphold
upholster
upholsterer
upholstery
upkeep
upland