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Showing results for strengthen. Search instead for streckziehen.
Definitions

strengthen

[strengk-thuhn, streng-, stren-] / ˈstrɛŋk θən, ˈstrɛŋ-, ˈstrɛn- /
VERB
make more forceful, powerful
Synonyms
STRONGEST
bolster build up enhance enlarge establish extend heighten increase intensify invigorate reinforce restore set up step up support sustain toughen
STRONG
add anneal ascend brace buttress confirm corroborate empower fortify harden justify mount multiply regenerate rejuvenate renew rise steel substantiate temper tone wax
WEAK
add fuel to fire make firm sinew tone up
Antonyms
STRONGEST
abridge condense curtail decrease destroy diminish halt hinder lessen let down lower reduce shrink slow subtract undermine weaken
STRONG
contradict decline deny descend disprove drop fall kill reject ruin slump soften
WEAK
break down discourage dishearten dissuade hurt
VERB
encourage, hearten
Synonyms
STRONGEST
consolidate invigorate restore toughen uphold
STRONG
animate back bloom brace burgeon cheer embolden enliven flourish flower fortify gird harden inspirit nerve nourish prepare prosper rally ready refresh rejuvenate steel substantiate temper thrive
WEAK
back up bear out brace up carry weight enhearten gather resources give weight
Antonyms
STRONG
discourage dishearten dissuade fail kill languish let go lose neglect ruin shrink shrivel soften weaken
WEAK
break down hurt

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 said this will strengthen the energy supply, and better shield customers from volatile energy prices.

From BBC

The military said operations had targeted "key Hezbollah strongholds" in recent days with the aim of strengthening the defence of Israeli border communities.

From BBC

Firms expressed optimism about the next six months, with the future business conditions index at 31.0 and capital spending plans strengthening.

From The Wall Street Journal

The Swiss franc has strengthened slightly against the U.S. dollar as a result, while other European currencies have weakened.

From The Wall Street Journal

"This activity is part of broader defensive efforts to establish and strengthen a forward defensive posture," the military said.

From Barron's

From Roget's 21st Century Thesaurus, Third Edition Copyright © 2013 by the Philip Lief Group.