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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.

One of California’s first moves was to put a moratorium on issuing new hospice licenses to give officials time to strengthen oversight.

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 17, 2026

I can see this being another tight game, but Aston Villa are at home and they really need a win to strengthen their grip on a Champions League place.

From BBC • Apr. 16, 2026

Kering is reshaping Gucci’s product architecture and plans to strengthen Saint Laurent’s men’s collection and Balenciaga’s women’s collection.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 16, 2026

So people don’t hear about the bills she actually did sign — legislation to lower energy costs, strengthen schools, make housing more affordable and attract billions in business investment to the commonwealth.

From Salon • Apr. 15, 2026

“Good work, mice, strengthen my gates. I wouldn’t want to rule a fortress with broken doors.”

From "Redwall" by Brian Jacques

Vocabulary lists containing strengthen

President Obama's second inaugural address

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Spelling Practice, Unit 2

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