reinforce

[ree-in-fawrs, -fohrs] / ˌri ɪnˈfɔrs, -ˈfoʊrs /

VERB

strengthen, augment

Synonyms

STRONGEST

add to bolster boost build up buttress emphasize enlarge fortify increase shore up stress support underline

STRONG

carry energize harden hype multiply prop stiffen stroke supplement sustain toughen

WEAK

add fuel to fire back up beef up heat up lend a hand pick up pillar prop up punch up soup up stand up for

Antonyms

STRONGEST

decrease diminish discourage hinder hurt lessen let down play down prevent reduce undermine weaken

STRONG

liquefy melt soften

WEAK

subtract take away

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.

This “could reinforce concerns about inflationary risks and support the prospect of higher interest rates,” the CEO says.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 9, 2026

It might end in something more palatable than a sweep — maybe they win a game? — but it’s going to end, and soon, and the Lakers need to reinforce their priorities before it does.

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 9, 2026

ATF’s findings reinforce how race and class intersect in America.

From Salon • Apr. 9, 2026

Troops had also been deployed to hunt the insurgents and reinforce security.

From BBC • Apr. 6, 2026

I think they’d rather chat with an inmate and reinforce his connection to the outside world than dodge missiles of shit and piss.

From "Newjack: Guarding Sing Sing" by Ted Conover

Vocabulary lists containing reinforce

The SAT: Language of the Test, List 2

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The Language of Standardized Tests, List 2

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The ACT: The Language of the Test, List 2

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!