Upstream (adjective)

1. Towards or in the direction against the flow of a river or stream.
2. Occurring or situated earlier in a process or series of events.

Origin:

Late 16th century: from up- (expressing direction) + stream.

Examples:

1. The fish are swimming upstream to spawn.
2. The upstream part of the river is more isolated and less developed.
3. The company is focusing on upstream research and development.
4. The upstream oil industry is facing challenges due to low prices.
5. The upstream network infrastructure is critical for fast internet access.