upriver

UK: ˌʌpˈrɪvə | US: ˌʌpˈrɪvər

Definition

  1. adv. in the direction toward the source of a river

  2. adj. located or moving toward the source of a river

Structure
up <higher position>river <flowing water body>
Etymology

The word combines "up," from Old English upp (indicating direction or elevation), and "river," from Old French rivere (itself from Latin ripa, meaning "bank"). The compound emerged in English to describe movement or position against a river's current, reflecting a straightforward spatial logic.

Examples

  1. The canoeists paddled upriver for hours to reach the campsite.

  2. The factory is located upriver from the city, minimizing pollution risks.

  3. Salmon swim upriver to spawn.

  4. The upriver winds made sailing difficult.

  5. They hiked along the upriver trail to explore the remote waterfalls.