Meaning & Definition of word "Strengthen"

Strengthen

/ˈstrɛŋkθən/

verb:

  • 1. to make or become stronger.
    • Example: The new policy aims to strengthen the economy by creating more jobs.
  • 2. to enhance or reinforce something.
    • Example: The therapist provided exercises to help strengthen her patient's core muscles.
  • 3. to make more potent or intense.
    • Example: They decided to strengthen their argument with additional evidence.
  • 4. to encourage or support someone in a positive way.
    • Example: Community programs are designed to strengthen relationships among neighbors.
  • 5. to fortify or bolster a physical structure.
    • Example: The engineers conducted tests to strengthen the bridge's foundation.

Etymology

Middle English strengen, from Old English strencgan, meaning 'to make strong'

Common Phrases and Expressions

strengthen ties:

to improve relationships or connections between groups or individuals

strengthen one's resolve:

to make oneself more determined in a decision or belief

strengthen the case:

to provide additional evidence or arguments to support a claim

Related Words

strength:

the quality or state of being strong; physical power or capacity

strengthening:

the process of making something stronger

Slang Meanings of strengthen

Meaning: beef up

Example Sentence: We need to beef up our security measures.

Meaning: jack up

Example Sentence: They jacked up their prices to maximize profits.