Emily Dickinson Lexicon
Definition for UP-ON'
UP-ON', prep. [Sax. ufan, ufon or ufe. This is probably up and on; the Sax. ufe being the G. auf, up. On. Upon has the sense of on, and might perhaps be wholly dispensed with.]
- Resting or being on the top or surface; as, being upon a hill, or upon a rock; upon a field; upon a table; upon a river; upon the altar; upon the roof. He has his coat upon his back; his hat is upon his head.
- In a state of resting or dependence; as, upon this condition; he will contract with you upon these terms. Upon our repentance we hope to be forgiven.
- Denoting resting, as a burden. Impose upon yourself this task.
- In the direction or part of; as, upon the right hand.
- Relating to. They are now engaged upon the affairs of the bank.
- In consideration of; as, upon the whole matter. Dryden.
- Near to; as, a village upon the Thames.
- With, or having received. He came upon an hour's warning.
- On the occasion of; engaged in for the execution of. He sent the officer upon a bold enterprise.
- In; during the time of; as, upon the seventh day; upon the first of January.
- Noting security; as, to borrow money upon lands, or upon mortgage.
- Noting approach or attack. The Philistines be upon thee, Samson. Judges xvi.
- Noting exposure or incurring some danger or loss. You do this upon pain of death, or upon the penalties of the law.
- At the time of; on occasion of. What was their conduct upon this event?
- By inference from, or pursuing a certain supposition. Upon his principles, we can have no stable government.
- Engaged in. What is he upon? Locke.
- Having a particular manner. The horse is now upon a hard trot. Dryden.
- Resting or standing, as on a condition. He is put upon his good behavior.
- Noting means of subsistence or support. Cattle live upon grass.
- Noting dependence for subsistence; as, paupers come upon the parish or town. To take upon, to assume. To assume upon, in law, to promise; to undertake.
Return to page 163 of the letter “U”.