fortifies

VERB

make strong and secure; add to

Synonyms

STRONGEST

brace build up buttress consolidate entrench protect reinforce secure shore up step up strengthen

STRONG

bulwark embattle garrison gird prepare prop ready steel support

WEAK

charge up punch up soup up

Antonyms

STRONGEST

harm hurt injure let down let go loosen unfasten weaken

STRONG

neglect

WEAK

decrease discourage dissuade

VERB

encourage, reassure

Synonyms

STRONGEST

brace build up embolden energize invigorate reinforce restore strengthen

STRONG

arouse cheer confirm enliven hearten rally refresh renew rouse stiffen stir sustain

WEAK

buck up pour it on punch up

Antonyms

STRONGEST

dishearten hurt weaken

STRONG

bore bring down calm depress discourage dull halt stop

WEAK

decrease dissuade injure

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.

It’s what fortifies our bodies and keeps us curious.

From Salon • May 25, 2026

Prebiotic fiber, from sources like legumes, fortifies the good bacteria in your digestive system and, in turn, benefits your metabolism and immune system.

From MarketWatch • May 10, 2026

Water may be scarce, and climate change may be ushering in more extreme droughts, but this landscape fortifies them.

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 7, 2024

The deal, announced Tuesday, fortifies the interior of the Steelers offensive line as Pittsburgh builds around second-year quarterback Kenny Pickett.

From Seattle Times • Mar. 21, 2023

Fortificā′tion, the art of strengthening a military position by means of defensive works: the work so constructed: that which fortifies; For′tifier.

From Chambers's Twentieth Century Dictionary (part 2 of 4: E-M) by Various