encouragement

[en-kur-ij-muhnt, -kuhr-] / ɛnˈkɜr ɪdʒ mənt, -ˈkʌr- /

NOUN

help, support

Synonyms

STRONGEST

assistance backing cheer comfort confidence consolation faith fortitude incentive inspiration optimism reassurance relief reward stimulation stimulus

STRONG

advance advocacy aid animation boost easement favor firmness helpfulness hope incitement invigoration promotion refreshment softening succor supporting trust urging

WEAK

consoling enlivening inspiritment reassuring relieving shot in the arm solacing

Antonyms

STRONGEST

annoyance discouragement distrust doubt gloom hindrance hurt injury

STRONG

disbelief impediment

WEAK

denunciation derision deterrent

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

Oil prices eased in subdued Easter holiday trading as investors took encouragement from news of some tankers passing through the Strait of Hormuz.

From Barron's • Apr. 6, 2026

Watching from ringside was pound-for-pound star Claressa Shields, shouting encouragement for Dubois.

From BBC • Apr. 5, 2026

With his encouragement, I enrolled in community college.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 2, 2026

Birol said recommendations from the agency to member countries have included encouragement of working from home, reducing speed limits for cars and providing financial support to vulnerable people.

From MarketWatch • Apr. 1, 2026

Two or three stand, shaking their fists in encouragement.

From "Water for Elephants" by Sara Gruen

Vocabulary lists containing encouragement

Catching Fire

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"Refugees Find New Lives"

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Taste of Salt

Want to remember this word for good? Start your learning journey today with our library of interactive, themed word lists built by the experts at Vocabulary.com – we'll help you make the most of your study time!