upright

Upright is an adjective describing something that is vertical or erect, not leaning or inclined. It can also describe moral integrity, such as behavior that is honest, fair, and principled.

In everyday language, upright describes posture and orientation, objects that stand on their base, and design distinctions that emphasize vertical arrangement. The upright piano, for example, is a piano whose strings and soundboard are placed vertically, allowing a more compact footprint than a grand piano. The term is also used for the upright bass, a large string instrument played in an upright position.

In ethics and law, upright characterizes conduct that is morally upright or legally proper, emphasizing honesty and trustworthiness. An upright citizen or upright dealing signals adherence to ethical norms.

The word upright derives from Old English upriht, combining elements meaning upward and straight or right. It has been used in English since the Middle Ages to denote erectness in both physical stance and moral character.