uphold
UK: ʌpˈhəʊld | US: ʌpˈhoʊld
vt. to support or maintain a principle, law, or decision
vt. to confirm or agree with a previous decision or ruling
vt. to keep something in place or prevent it from falling
The word uphold combines up (directionally or metaphorically elevating) and hold (to maintain or support). It originated in Middle English (uphelden), reflecting the idea of "holding something up" physically or figuratively. Over time, it evolved to emphasize legal or moral support, such as upholding a law or principle.
The court decided to uphold the original verdict.
It is our duty to uphold the values of justice and equality.
The pillars uphold the weight of the ancient structure.
She vowed to uphold her family’s traditions.
The committee voted to uphold the ban on plastic waste.