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.

The advocates said they’d gotten some encouragement from Councilmembers Heather Hutt and Katy Yaroslavsky, whose districts include the area of the proposed park.

From Los Angeles Times • Jun. 20, 2026

Services range from practical help to something more emotional: attention, conversation, encouragement, and predictability.

From Barron's • Jun. 19, 2026

At the start of the second set, Raducanu implored her team for more vocal encouragement - and the home crowd further increased their level of support.

From BBC • Jun. 14, 2026

They also provide what he describes as 'molecules of emotional health', small but meaningful moments of encouragement, attention, and understanding that help strengthen children's 'emotional immune systems'.

From Science Daily • Jun. 13, 2026

So much silent, old-man presence, and loud old-man encouragement.

From "A Heart in a Body in the World" by Deb Caletti

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!