Synonyms for

Bolster

Verb / ˈbəʊlstɜ: / Another word for bolster — explore alternatives below. For syllable breakdowns and pronunciation, see this word on Syllablesworld.

Definition

to support or strengthen

Synonyms & similar words

longpillow bolsterup pad support reinforce strengthen boost enhance aid assist help fortify brace underpin sustain maintain uphold carry augment amplify enlarge

Synonyms by register

Formal

support reinforce strengthen substantiate

Informal

back up prop up give a hand help out

Literary

uphold buttress fortify

Antonyms

weaken undermine impede hinder damage reduce diminish

Common collocations

  • bolster support
  • bolster the economy
  • bolster morale
  • bolster confidence
  • bolster efforts
  • bolster sales
  • bolster a case

Word family

noun bolster
verb bolster

Usage note

Primarily used as a verb meaning to support or strengthen. The noun form refers to a long, pillow-like cushion.

Example sentences

  1. He used pillows to bolster his fort in the living room.
  2. She needed to bolster her argument with some facts.
  3. The company decided to bolster their sales by running more ads.
  4. The team captain gave a speech to bolster the team's morale.
  5. He took a deep breath to bolster his courage before the big presentation.

Quotes

  • Hope is a comforter, it is a bolster, it is a life preserver, and it is a way of seeing.
  • The only way to bolster one's confidence is to take risks and explore opportunities.
  • Love is the only thing that will ever make a man both happy and good, and the only thing that can bolster his soul.

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