bolster

Language: en

🇺🇸 /ˈboʊlstɜr/

📖 Definitions

  1. noun
    A long, cylindrical pillow or cushion, typically placed across the head of a bed or used as a support.; A pad or support used in various mechanical or structural applications, such as a support for a beam or a pad under a saddle.; A part of a knife handle that forms a junction between the handle and the blade, providing balance and protection.; A padded support placed under a patient's body during surgery or medical procedures.
  2. verb
    To support, strengthen, or reinforce something, especially an argument, claim, or feeling.; To prop up or pad with a bolster or similar support.; To encourage or give confidence to someone; to buoy up morale or spirits.; To add to or increase something, such as numbers, forces, or resources.

🔗 Details

Word forms

countable Plural: bolsters 3rd sing.: bolsters Past: bolstered Past part.: bolstered Pres part.: bolstering

Collocations

bolster confidencebolster supportbolster moralebolster one's argumentbolster upbolster the economy

Derivatives

bolsteringbolstered

Synonyms

supportreinforcestrengthenbuttressshore upprop up

Antonyms

undermineweaken

Commonly confused

boost
EN: 'Bolster' means to support or strengthen something already in place; 'boost' means to increase or push something upward in level or amount.
buffer
EN: 'Buffer' means to cushion or protect against impact; 'bolster' means to actively support and strengthen.

Spelling tips

EN: No common spelling issues. Note that as a noun, 'bolster' refers specifically to a long, cylindrical pillow or cushion used for support.

💬 Examples

  1. She propped herself up against the bolster and read for an hour.

  2. The engineer placed a steel bolster beneath the beam to distribute the load evenly.

  3. The brass bolster on the chef's knife gave it a well-balanced feel.

  4. The surgical team positioned a bolster under the patient's knee to maintain proper alignment.

  5. The new evidence bolstered the prosecution's case significantly.

  6. She bolstered the mattress with extra padding to make it more comfortable.

  7. The coach's pep talk bolstered the team's confidence before the final match.

  8. The government bolstered its military presence along the border.