strengthen

[ strengk-thuhn, streng-, stren- ]

verb (used with object)

1. to make stronger; give strength to.

   Synonyms: support, fortify, reinforce, buttress

2. Phonetics. to change (a speech sound) to an articulation requiring more effort, as from fricative to stop or nongeminate to geminate.

verb (used without object)

1. to gain strength; grow stronger.

strengthen

/ ˈstrɛŋθən /

verb

1. to make or become stronger

Derived Forms

• ˈstrengthener, noun

Other Words From

• strengthen·er noun
• strengthen·ing·ly adverb
• over·strengthen verb
• pre·strengthen verb (used with object)
• re·strengthen verb
• un·strengthened adjective
• un·strengthen·ing adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of strengthen¹

First recorded in 1250–1300, strengthen is from the Middle English word strengthnen. See strength, -en ¹

Example Sentences

Amnesty has called for the embargo to be expanded to the rest of Sudan, and to strengthen its monitoring mechanism following the outbreak of a civil war last year.

From BBC

The government wants a regulator to be able to "improve the resilience of club finances, tackle rogue owners and directors and strengthen fan engagement".

From BBC

“We need to work together, especially at the state level, to protect and strengthen it.”

From Salon

She told the BBC she would be meeting MPs to discuss ways to strengthen the scheme, potentially by making participation a mandatory condition for venues with alcohol licences.

From BBC

The move would strengthen presidential power by undercutting the chamber’s constitutional role to “advise and consent” on political appointees.

From BBC

Related Words

• bolster
• build up
• enhance
• enlarge
• establish
• extend
• heighten
• increase
• intensify
• invigorate
• reinforce
• restore
• set up
• step up
• support
• sustain
• toughen