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upcycle Meaning & Definition

/ˈʌpsaɪk(ə)l/

What Does Upcycle Mean?

Upcycle is a verb that means To convert (waste materials, etc.) into new materials or products of higher quality and greater functionality. It is also used to mean To promote into a more productive or useful role. As a noun, it means A period of a cycle where something is increasing or improving.

Word Facts for Upcycle

Part of speechverb, noun
Pronunciation//ˈʌpsaɪk(ə)l//
Syllables1
Antonymsdowncycle
Pluralupcycles
Verb formsupcycles, upcycling, upcycled

Upcycle Definition (Verb)

  1. To convert (waste materials, etc.) into new materials or products of higher quality and greater functionality.
  2. To promote into a more productive or useful role.

Upcycle as a Noun

  1. A period of a cycle where something is increasing or improving.

Synonyms of Upcycle

The source does not list synonyms for this entry.

Upcycle synonyms and antonyms →

Antonyms of Upcycle

Upcycle in a Sentence

No example sentences are available for this entry.

Word Forms & Grammar

upcycle (third-person singular simple present upcycles, present participle upcycling, simple past and past participle upcycled)

upcycle (plural upcycles)

Origin of Upcycle

Origin 1: Blend of up- +‎ recycle or possibly upgrade +‎ recycle.

Origin 2: From up +‎ cycle.

Upcycle Pronunciation

You say upcycle as //ˈʌpsaɪk(ə)l//. It has 1 syllable.

Frequently Asked Questions About Upcycle

Is upcycle a verb or a noun?

Upcycle is mainly used as a verb, but it can also be used as a noun.

What is the opposite of upcycle?

The opposite of upcycle is downcycle.

What is the plural of upcycle?

The plural of upcycle is upcycles.

What is the past tense of upcycle?

The past tense of upcycle is upcycled. The present participle is upcycling.

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