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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.

The agency vowed to strengthen inspections across the supply chain to crack down on illicit behaviour.

From Barron's • Apr. 28, 2026

The Rams made eye-catching moves in free agency for cornerbacks Trent McDuffie and Jaylen Watson to strengthen even further - so as usual only time will tell if they won or lost this one.

From BBC • Apr. 27, 2026

“The lesson that can be taken away is just thinking about how to harden and strengthen security at future events when you have so many high-profile people,” she said.

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 26, 2026

To strengthen the effect, the toron was placed inside an optical microcavity, a structure made of mirrors that repeatedly reflects light and keeps it confined for longer periods.

From Science Daily • Apr. 25, 2026

“I want to be where my mother is,” I said, trying to strengthen my plea.

From "Black Boy" by Richard Wright

Vocabulary lists containing strengthen

President Obama's second inaugural address

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Spelling Practice, Unit 2

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