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Definitions

strengthen

[strengk-thuhn, streng-, stren-] / ˈstrɛŋk θən, ˈstrɛŋ-, ˈstrɛn- /
VERB
make more forceful, powerful
Synonyms
STRONGEST
bolster build up enhance enlarge establish extend heighten increase intensify invigorate reinforce restore set up step up support sustain toughen
STRONG
add anneal ascend brace buttress confirm corroborate empower fortify harden justify mount multiply regenerate rejuvenate renew rise steel substantiate temper tone wax
WEAK
add fuel to fire make firm sinew tone up
Antonyms
STRONGEST
abridge condense curtail decrease destroy diminish halt hinder lessen let down lower reduce shrink slow subtract undermine weaken
STRONG
contradict decline deny descend disprove drop fall kill reject ruin slump soften
WEAK
break down discourage dishearten dissuade hurt
VERB
encourage, hearten
Synonyms
STRONGEST
consolidate invigorate restore toughen uphold
STRONG
animate back bloom brace burgeon cheer embolden enliven flourish flower fortify gird harden inspirit nerve nourish prepare prosper rally ready refresh rejuvenate steel substantiate temper thrive
WEAK
back up bear out brace up carry weight enhearten gather resources give weight
Antonyms
STRONG
discourage dishearten dissuade fail kill languish let go lose neglect ruin shrink shrivel soften weaken
WEAK
break down hurt

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.

Emerging markets tend to do better when the dollar is weak, and UBS strategists note the dollar’s recent inability to strengthen despite real interest rate differentials with Europe and better-than-expected economic growth.

From Barron's • May 7, 2026

Bank Indonesia Gov. Perry Warjiyo vowed that the central bank will intensify intervention in onshore and offshore foreign-exchange markets, adding that the rupiah is “undervalued and should strengthen moving forward.”

From The Wall Street Journal • May 6, 2026

That, in turn, could bring jobs, strengthen the tax base, and improve quality of life.

From Science Daily • May 6, 2026

“We will strengthen our processes and continue pushing toward the standard our community expects and deserves.”

From Los Angeles Times • May 6, 2026

Ceaugescu’s ban on abortion was designed to achieve one of his major aims: to rapidly strengthen Romania by boosting its population.

From "Freakonomics: A Rogue Economist Explores the Hidden Side of Everything" by Steven D. Levitt

Vocabulary lists containing strengthen

President Obama's second inaugural address

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Spelling Practice, Unit 2

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