upbringing

noun

up·​bring·​ing ˈəp-ˌbriŋ-iŋ How to pronounce upbringing (audio)
Synonyms of upbringingnext
: early training
especially : a particular way of bringing up a child
had a strict upbringing

Examples of upbringing in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
His story contrasts sharply with Netanyahu’s elite Jerusalem upbringing in the circles of power. — Tal Shalev, CNN Money, 24 Oct. 2026 My parents homeschooled me through 11th grade to ensure religion would play an essential role in my upbringing. — Ren Brabenec, Washington Post, 21 Oct. 2026 Josh also had conversations with me and Daniel about something that’s not really in the book, but Mitt probably had a really tumultuous upbringing and life before settling down. — Brian Davids, HollywoodReporter, 20 Oct. 2026 Anita recalled her grandson’s adventurous upbringing and his relationship with God. — Marisela Cruz, San Antonio Express-News, 17 Oct. 2026 See All Example Sentences for upbringing

Word History

First Known Use

1520, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of upbringing was in 1520

Rhymes for upbringing

See All Rhymes for upbringing

Browse Nearby Words

upbreathe
upbringing
upbuild
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Upbringing.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/upbringing. Accessed 27 Oct. 2026.

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Kids Definition

upbringing

noun
up·​bring·​ing ˈəp-ˌbriŋ-iŋ How to pronounce upbringing (audio)
: the process or way of bringing up and training
had a strict upbringing

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