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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.

“At a time of rampant threats to our democratic system, we must strengthen and defend the integrity of our elections to reaffirm that our government is of, by, and for the people,” she said.

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 4, 2026

The U.S. company said it would strengthen a tie-up with the country’s cybersecurity office and help the government and businesses detect cyberattacks early or preempt them.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 3, 2026

While supporters argue that restarting drilling would strengthen security and energy independence, experts interviewed by AFP emphasised major constraints for both oil and gas.

From Barron's • Apr. 1, 2026

He argued that closer ties with Europe would strengthen the UK's relationship with the US as well, since successive US presidents had been pushing for Europe to do more on defence and security.

From BBC • Apr. 1, 2026

Gradually, she began to strengthen and bloom again.

From "Forged by Fire" by Sharon M. Draper

From Roget's 21st Century Thesaurus, Third Edition Copyright © 2013 by the Philip Lief Group.