supporter

American  

[suh-pawr-ter, -pohr-] / səˈpɔr tər, -ˈpoʊr- /

noun

1. a person or thing that supports.

2. an adherent, follower, backer, or advocate.

3. a device, usually of elastic cotton webbing, for supporting some part of the body, especially a jockstrap.

4. a garter, especially one attached to a garter belt or girdle.

5. Heraldry. either of two human or animal figures flanking and supporting an escutcheon in an achievement of arms.

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supporter British  

/ səˈpɔːtə /

noun

1. a person who or thing that acts as a support

2. a person who backs a sports team, politician, etc

3. a garment or device worn to ease the strain on or restrict the movement of a bodily structure or part

4. heraldry a figure or beast in a coat of arms depicted as holding up the shield

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Other Word Forms

• nonsupporter noun

Etymology

Origin of supporter

First recorded in 1400–50; late Middle English; support + -er ¹

Example Sentences

After all, internally in their financial planning, and externally in communication with supporters, the stated target from the previous summer had been a return to European competition, most likely through the Europa League.

From BBC

While supporters argue that restarting drilling would strengthen security and energy independence, experts interviewed by AFP emphasised major constraints for both oil and gas.

From Barron's

Northern Ireland supporters, meanwhile, had been offered refunds by their association, who sensed the lack of appetite, even if their defeat in Italy had been less of a sickener.

From BBC

In a strange and angry pocket of the Tartan Army, there is a section of Scotland supporters who have taken to booing the head coach and the team.

From BBC

Those who watched the FX/New York Times project on Jackson and wondered where her supporters’ voices were now have their answer.

From Salon

Related Words

• ally
• defender
• follower
• patron
• proponent
• support