English Reference
noun · adjective

UPS

n. · adj.
US /ˈəps/ UK /ˈʌps/ ups

  1. 01 B2 Upper Intermediate Technical Computing

    n.Stands for Uninterruptible Power Supply. A battery system that provides power to a computer if the main electricity fails.

    n.Abbreviation for Uninterruptible Power Supply. An apparatus that provides emergency power to a load when the input power source or main power fails.

    Simple

    The server stayed online during the storm because it was connected to a UPS.

    In context

    Data centers rely on industrial-scale UPS systems to bridge the gap between a utility failure and the activation of diesel generators.

    Usage

    Usually treated as a countable noun; use 'a UPS' (pronounced 'a U-P-S').

    battery backuppower source
  2. 02 B1 Intermediate

    n.Stands for United Parcel Service. A large international company that delivers packages.

    n.Abbreviation for United Parcel Service. A global package delivery and supply chain management company.

    Simple

    I need to go to the shop to drop off this UPS package.

    In context

    The logistics manager coordinated the international shipment through UPS to ensure real-time tracking for the client.

    courierdelivery service
  3. 03 C1 Advanced DialectSlang

    adj.A word used to describe something that is very good or impressive.

    adj.A predicative adjective used to denote excellence or high quality.

    Simple

    His performance at the concert last night was really UPS.

    In context

    The local youth culture often uses the term to describe an athlete who is particularly UPS during a match.

    Teacher's tip

    This sense is specific to Singaporean English (Singlish) and is rarely understood outside of that region.

This entry
Level B2 · Upper Intermediate
Frequency Common
Updated