Meaning & use
bolster
To support, strengthen, or improve something, especially to make it more likely to succeed.
See it in a sentence
The coach gave an encouraging speech to bolster the team's confidence before the final match.
New evidence was presented to bolster the lawyer's argument in front of the jury.
A note on using this word
Bolster is often paired with abstract nouns like confidence, support, morale, or an argument, rather than physical objects.
Words with a similar meaning
Choose a synonym to suit the sentence. Meanings can overlap without being identical.
Words with an opposite meaning
weakenundermine
Another way to use it
2. noun
A long, firm pillow placed under other pillows or across the head of a bed.
She propped a bolster behind her back to sit up comfortably and read.
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