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Showing results for strengthen. Search instead for sprengofens.
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.

Avoid judging friends’ financial choices and openly discuss money-related tensions in a nonblaming way to strengthen the relationship.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 16, 2026

So people don’t hear about the bills she actually did sign — legislation to lower energy costs, strengthen schools, make housing more affordable and attract billions in business investment to the commonwealth.

From Salon • Apr. 15, 2026

She said the amendments "aim to strengthen duty bearers' understanding of the law and how it applies across a range of the scenarios they encounter day-to-day".

From BBC • Apr. 14, 2026

“The bureau proactively manages the city’s streets, ensuring roadways are treated not only for repair but also to strengthen the street network and prevent future potholes,” he said.

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 14, 2026

“The men need to see my signature to know this is truth. They have endured so much, Sal. Don’t deprive them of this chance to celebrate. It will strengthen their spirits.”

From "Chains" by Laurie Halse Anderson

Vocabulary lists containing strengthen

President Obama's second inaugural address

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Spelling Practice, Unit 2

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