The Complete Vocabulary Builder Workbook by BETTER WORDS R. B. Skinner

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bolster

verb

/ˈbəʊlstə/

IPA:

Dictionary definition of bolster

To support or strengthen, often with the addition of extra resources or encouragement.
"The town hired more police officers to bolster their law enforcement presence."

Detailed meaning of bolster

This can refer to the provision of physical materials, such as bolstering a building's foundation or a chair's cushion, or providing emotional support or validation to a person in need. A bolster can also refer to a long, cylindrical cushion used for supporting various parts of the body during rest or sleep, such as under the head, legs, or arms.

Example sentences containing bolster

1. He decided to bolster his confidence by practicing his speech in front of a mirror.
2. The company decided to bolster their sales by offering a discount to their customers.
3. The athlete consumed protein shakes to bolster his strength and improve his performance.
4. The school board made an effort to bolster the school's funding to improve the students' education.
5. She used pillows to bolster her back while reading in bed.
6. The government announced a new plan to bolster the economy.

History and etymology of bolster

The verb 'bolster' has its etymological origins in Middle English and Old English. In Middle English, it was 'bolstre,' and in Old English, it was 'bolstor,' both referring to a long, thick pillow or cushion used to support the head or body. Over time, the term extended its meaning metaphorically to describe the act of providing support or reinforcement, much like a bolster supports the body. This transition from a physical cushion to a figurative form of support signifies the idea of adding extra resources or encouragement to strengthen a person, idea, or situation. Thus, the etymology of 'bolster' emphasizes its historical connection to the concept of providing additional support or reinforcement, often with the aim of making something more robust or resilient.

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Further usage examples of bolster

1. She added extra layers to her outfit to bolster her warmth on the cold winter day.
2. The organization received a generous donation to bolster their humanitarian efforts.
3. The team made some changes to their defense to bolster their chances of winning the game.
4. The manager sought to bolster employee morale by recognizing their hard work and contributions.
5. The CEO made a bold move to bolster the company's stock price.
6. The team collaborated to bolster their skills and strategic planning.
7. To bolster their financial stability, they diversified their investments.
8. His unwavering support bolstered her through challenging times.
9. The government unveiled a stimulus package to bolster the economy.
10. Her encouragement always bolsters our determination to succeed.
11. Investing in advanced technology will bolster our competitiveness.
12. Additional training will bolster their proficiency in the new system.
13. The mentor's guidance helped bolster their career progression.
14. They decided to bolster their marketing efforts to reach a wider audience.
15. The scholarship program aims to bolster educational opportunities.
16. Community volunteers work diligently to bolster local initiatives.
17. Environmental conservation efforts must continue to bolster biodiversity.
18. Supportive friends can bolster mental and emotional resilience.
19. To bolster workplace safety, new protocols were implemented.
20. The organization seeks donations to bolster humanitarian projects.
21. Strong leadership is crucial to bolster team cohesion and productivity.
22. He provided funding to bolster research into renewable energy.
23. Timely intervention can bolster the chances of successful recovery.
24. International cooperation is essential to bolster global security.
25. Bolstering healthcare infrastructure remains a top priority.