upstream
|up/stream|
/ˌʌpˈstriːm/
toward the source / against the flow
Etymology
'upstream' originates from Old English elements: specifically 'upp' (meaning 'up') and 'stream' (meaning 'stream').
'upstream' developed in Middle English from earlier Old English compounds (e.g. 'upp-stream' or similar forms) and eventually became the single modern word 'upstream'.
Initially it referred specifically to the direction toward a stream's source; over time it retained that literal meaning and also gained metaphorical uses to mean 'earlier in a process' or 'relating to upstream stages of industry or systems'.
Meanings by Part of Speech
Noun 1
the upstream part of a river or, by extension, the early/initial stage of a process or industry (e.g., exploration and production in oil and gas).
They work in the upstream sector of the oil industry.
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Adjective 1
located toward or relating to the source of a river or stream; higher on a river relative to a given point.
The upstream section of the river is less polluted.
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Adverb 1
in the direction of or toward the source of a river; against the current.
The salmon swam upstream to spawn.
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Preposition 1
on or toward the source side of (used with 'of').
The town is located upstream of the dam.
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Last updated: 2025/12/19 15:15