upward mobility

noun

: the capacity or facility for rising to a higher social or economic position
upwardly mobile adjective

Examples of upward mobility 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.
The state is one of the worst parts of the country for upward mobility of homeownership. — Jake Angelo, Fortune, 27 May 2026 To Griffin and those around him, Parker presented a life marked by ambition and upward mobility. — Isabella Wandermurem, Time, 12 June 2026 But Veda has zero admiration for Mildred’s rapid upward mobility, striking the pose of a blue blood who looks down on hard work. — Deputy Managing Editor, Los Angeles Times, 29 June 2026 Classrooms, startups, and digital platforms have become launchpads for upward mobility. — Rhea Mogul, CNN Money, 5 June 2026 See All Example Sentences for upward mobility

Word History

First Known Use

1949, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of upward mobility was in 1949

Rhymes for upward mobility

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Browse Nearby Words

upward
upward mobility
upwards of
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Cite this Entry

“Upward mobility.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/upward%20mobility. Accessed 7 Jul. 2026.

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More from Merriam-Webster on upward mobility

Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about upward mobility

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