bolster Definition
- 1to support or strengthen something
- 2a long, narrow cushion or pillow
Using bolster: Examples
Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "bolster" can be used in various situations through the following examples!
Example
The government is taking action to bolster the economy.
Example
She tried to bolster my confidence by telling me I could do it.
Example
He used a bolster to prop up the sagging mattress.
Example
I need a bolster for my yoga practice.
bolster Synonyms and Antonyms
Idioms Using bolster
Example
The company is looking to bolster its ranks with new hires.
Example
The lawyer bolstered her case with new testimony from a key witness.
Example
The government is implementing policies to bolster the economy and create jobs.
Phrases with bolster
bolster up
to support or strengthen something
Example
We need to bolster up our defenses against cyber attacks.
Example
I like to sleep with a bolster pillow under my knees.
bolster one's confidence
to increase one's confidence or self-assurance
Example
Her words of encouragement bolstered my confidence before the big presentation.
Origins of bolster
from Middle English 'bolstre', from Old English 'bolster', meaning 'a cushion, something stuffed with wool'
Summary: bolster in Brief
'Bolster' [ˈbəʊlstə(r)] can be used as a verb or a noun. As a verb, it means to support or strengthen something, as in 'The government is taking action to bolster the economy.' It can also refer to using a long, narrow cushion or pillow, as in 'He used a bolster to prop up the sagging mattress.' 'Bolster' extends into phrases like 'bolster up,' and idioms like 'bolster the ranks,' denoting increasing numbers, and 'bolster one's case,' implying additional evidence.
