reinforce

verb

ree-in-FORS/ˌɹi.ɪnˈfɔɹs/Sayree-in-FAWSUK/ˌɹiː.ɪnˈfɔːs/AUS/ˌɹiː.ɪnˈfoːs/

Formsreinforces, reinforcing, reinforced

3 meanings of reinforce

1
verbtransitive
To make something stronger by adding more to it.
Like adding extra ropes to hold up a heavy tent.
Workers reinforce the bridge with extra steel beams.
They reinforced the old wall before the heavy rains came.
Similarstrengthen, fortify, bolster, brace, support
Oppositeweaken, undermine
Note
2
verbtransitive
To make a behavior or belief stronger by repeating something that supports it.
Like watering a plant a little every day so it keeps growing.
Praising kids reinforces good behavior over time.
Teachers reinforce the classroom rules by repeating them every day.
Similarencourage, strengthen, promote, foster
Oppositediscourage
Note
3
verbtransitive
To make a point clearer by saying or showing it again.
Like underlining an important word so you don't forget it.
Good teachers reinforce key ideas at the end of each lesson.
She reinforced the main point with a simple example.
Similaremphasize, stress, underline, underscore, reiterate

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Origin

It comes from re- plus inforce.