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strengthen

American  
[strengk-thuhn, streng-, stren-] / ˈstrɛŋk θən, ˈstrɛŋ-, ˈstrɛn- /

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 British  
/ ˈstrɛŋθən /

verb

  1. to make or become stronger

"Collins English Dictionary — Complete & Unabridged" 2012 Digital Edition © William Collins Sons & Co. Ltd. 1979, 1986 © HarperCollins Publishers 1998, 2000, 2003, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2009, 2012

Other Word Forms

  • overstrengthen verb
  • prestrengthen verb (used with object)
  • restrengthen verb
  • strengthener noun
  • strengtheningly adverb
  • unstrengthened adjective
  • unstrengthening adjective

Etymology

Origin of strengthen

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

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

Beyond demonstrating a new communication method, the project strengthened expertise in advanced quantum photonics at the University of Warsaw.

From Science Daily

“It strengthens the powers of Civilian Oversight boards and Inspectors General and upholds our subpoena authority while also showcasing the strong public interest in robust, effective oversight of sheriffs, their departments, and their operations.”

From Los Angeles Times

"I do think that we should strengthen our cooperation on defence, security, energy, emissions and the economy," he replied.

From BBC

Researchers believe that repeated formation of DNA loops may reinforce these identity-defining gene patterns, repeatedly connecting important regions and strengthening their activity.

From Science Daily

These tube-like materials can strengthen polymers and metals or guide the movement of ions in batteries and desalination systems with far less resistance.

From Science Daily