Meaning & Definition of word "Reinforce"
to
Reinforce
/ˌriː.ɪnˈfɔːrs/
verb:
- 1. to strengthen or support, especially with additional personnel or material.
- Example: The teacher used visual aids to reinforce the students' understanding of the complex topic.
- 2. to make (an idea, behavior, or action) stronger or more intense.
- Example: The campaign aims to reinforce the importance of recycling in the community.
- 3. to add strength or support to something.
- Example: The construction workers added steel beams to reinforce the structure of the building.
Etymology
Middle French 'reinforcer', from 're-' (again) + 'enforcer' (to strengthen).
Common Phrases and Expressions
reinforcement learning:
A type of machine learning where an agent learns to make decisions by receiving rewards or penalties.
social reinforcement:
Positive feedback or reinforcement received from social interactions or relationships.
reinforcement theory:
A psychological theory that suggests behavior is influenced by rewards or punishments.
Related Words
fortify:
To strengthen a place with defensive works.
support:
To bear all or part of the weight of something.
Slang Meanings of reinforce
Meaning: To back someone up in an argument or situation.
Example Sentence: He reinforced my points during the debate.
Meaning: To hype up a situation or person.
Example Sentence: She reinforced his confidence before the performance.