Supportive

/səˈpɔːrtɪv/

Meaning & Definition

adjective

Providing encouragement or emotional help.

Her supportive comments helped me through a tough time.

Holding up or serving as support.

The supportive structure of the chair ensures it can hold a lot of weight.

Fostering a positive environment or atmosphere.

The school aims to create a supportive learning environment for all students.

From the verb 'support' + the suffix '-ive'.

supportive environment

An atmosphere that promotes and encourages positive growth.

supportive friendship

A friendship characterized by mutual encouragement and assistance.

supportive family

A family that offers emotional and practical support.

support

To bear the weight of, to hold up.

assistance

The act of helping.

encouragement

The action of giving someone support.

That’s what friends are for.

When she helped me through my rough patch, I thought, ‘that’s what friends are for’.

You’ve got my back.

When he stood up for me, I knew he had my back.