DictionaryAI

strengthen

verb
STRENGK-thuhn/ˈstɹɛŋ(k)θən/

Formsstrengthens, strengthening, strengthened

6 meanings of strengthen

Practice

  1. 1
    verbtransitive
    To make something stronger or harder to break.

    Like adding extra ropes to help hold up a heavy load.

    Exercise can strengthen your muscles over time.

    The builders strengthened the old bridge with steel beams.

    Similarreinforce, fortify, toughen, bolster, harden

    Oppositeweaken, undermine, debilitate, enfeeble

    Note
  2. 2
    verbintransitive
    To slowly become stronger or more powerful.

    Like a small plant that grows tougher each year.

    Bonds between teammates often strengthen during a hard season.

    The wind strengthened throughout the afternoon.

    Similarintensify, improve, increase, grow, build

    Oppositeweaken, decline, wane, diminish

    Note
  3. 3
    verbtransitive
    To give more support to someone or something.

    Good neighbors strengthen a community.

    The treaty strengthened ties between the two countries.

    Similarreinforce, support, bolster, buttress, boost

    Oppositeweaken, undermine, erode

  4. 4
    verbtransitive
    To make something greater, better, or more powerful.

    The coach wants to strengthen the team's defense.

    New evidence strengthened the company's position in court.

    Similarenhance, boost, increase, intensify, heighten

    Oppositeweaken, diminish, reduce, undermine

  5. 5
    verbtransitive
    To give someone more courage, hope, or inner strength.

    Like a warm meal that gives you energy to keep going.

    Her kind words strengthened the frightened children.

    Faith can strengthen people during hard times.

    Similarencourage, embolden, hearten, fortify, steel

    Oppositediscourage, dishearten, demoralize, weaken

    Note
  6. 6
    verbtransitive
    To give more proof or support to an idea or argument.

    These facts strengthen the theory.

    Fresh evidence strengthened the lawyer's argument.

    Similarsupport, corroborate, substantiate, confirm, reinforce

    Oppositeundermine, weaken, contradict, refute

Practice

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Origin

From Middle English, from an earlier form. It was probably later understood as "strength" plus "-en".