Reinforce
To strengthen or support something by adding resources, evidence, or encouragement; to make an argument, structure, or system more robust.
verbReinforce
To strengthen or support something by adding resources, evidence, or encouragement; to make an argument, structure, or system more robust.
verbImagine This
Imagine a crumbling bridge being strengthened with new steel beams and thicker concrete; after the work, the bridge feels solid and ready to handle heavy traffic.
Sounds Like
REE-in-FORSE
Looks Like
rein + force (reins for a horse + power)
Remember This
Reinforce = re- + force. It is distinct from enforce (to compel by authority). The noun form is reinforcement.
Other Forms
Connect With
strengthen, bolster, fortify, support, buttress
Note
Use reinforce to describe adding support or evidence. Do not use it to mean enforce; that is a different verb with a related but distinct meaning.
Study Deeper
- The engineers reinforced the dam with additional concrete and steel.
- The coach reinforced the team's morale with a motivating speech and extra practice.
From re- (again/back) + force; from Old French force and Latin fortis 'strong'.
REIN FORCE: Think of reins on a horse; when you reinforce something, you apply more force or support, guiding it to be stronger.
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Similar Words
Related words and words with the same part of speech.
Bolster
verbTo support; to strengthen or reinforce; to encourage
Abandon
verbTo give up completely, to desert or leave behind, or to relinquish a claim, plan, or responsibility.
Abate
verbTo decrease in amount or intensity; to reduce or end something.
Abolish
verbTo formally end or repeal a system, practice, or institution; to officially put an end to something established.
Abridge
verbTo shorten (a text, speech, or other work) by omitting parts; to condense.
Abscond
verbTo depart secretly or flee, especially to avoid detection or arrest.