Dictionary Entry

upstream

adverb

Find the meaning of the word upstream, plus dictionary definition, pronunciation, thesaurus-style synonyms, antonyms, and related vocabulary.

Back To Dictionary

Meaning

Dictionary meaning in a clear, student-friendly format.

Moving or happening in the direction from which a river or current flows, towards its source.

Example Sentence

The kayakers paddled upstream against the strong current to reach the hidden waterfall.

Usage Note

Describes movement or processes that go against the natural flow of a river or a system, or that happen earlier in a sequence or supply chain. For example, 'upstream manufacturing' refers to the early stages of production.

Synonyms

upriver against the current toward the source forward ahead

Antonyms

downstream downriver with the current