bolster

[ˈbəʊlstə(r)]

bolster Definition

• 1. to support or strengthen something
• 2. a 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

Synonyms for bolster

• support
• reinforce
• buttress
• brace
• prop up

Antonyms for bolster

• weaken
• undermine

Idioms Using bolster

• bolster the ranks

  to increase the number of people in a group or organization

  Example

  The company is looking to bolster its ranks with new hires.

• bolster one's case

  to provide additional evidence or arguments in support of one's position

  Example

  The lawyer bolstered her case with new testimony from a key witness.

• bolster the economy

  to take actions to improve or strengthen the economy

  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.

• bolster pillow

  a long, narrow cushion or pillow

  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.