up·hold·er \-də(r)\noun Etymology: Middle English upholdere, from upholden (to repair) + -ere -er 1.archaic a. (1): a dealer in small goods (2): a repairer or maker of small goods b.: upholsterer c.: undertaker 4 2.: one that upholds: as a.: a physical support b.: supporter, maintainer, defender < a stout upholder of authority — V.L.Parrington >