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.

At the same time, it attracts even more nerve fibers, strengthening a self sustaining loop that promotes tumor development.

From Science Daily

To strengthen their conclusions, the researchers validated their findings using an independent set of human brain samples.

From Science Daily

He added that he looked forward to working closely to strengthen "our multifaceted relationship".

From BBC

To strengthen its capabilities, Interpol partners with private firms in finance, cybersecurity and cryptocurrency analysis.

From Barron's

As this communication strengthens, the brain enters a different operating mode.

From Science Daily