Bolster: meaning, definitions and examples

🛋️
Add to dictionary

bolster

 

[ ˈbəʊlstər ]

Noun / Verb
Context #1 | Noun

furniture

A long, often cylindrical, cushion or pillow for a bed, sofa, etc.

Synonyms

cushion, pad, pillow

Examples of usage

  • She added a bolster to the head of the bed for extra support.
  • The bolster on the couch matched the throw pillows perfectly.
Context #2 | Verb

support

To support or strengthen; prop up.

Synonyms

reinforce, strengthen, support

Examples of usage

  • He tried to bolster her confidence by praising her work.
  • The government decided to bolster the economy with a new stimulus package.

Translations

Translations of the word "bolster" in other languages:

🇵🇹 reforçar

🇮🇳 समर्थन करना

🇩🇪 stützen

🇮🇩 memperkuat

🇺🇦 підтримувати

🇵🇱 wzmocnić

🇯🇵 支援する (しえんする)

🇫🇷 renforcer

🇪🇸 reforzar

🇹🇷 desteklemek

🇰🇷 지지하다

🇸🇦 تعزيز

🇨🇿 podpořit

🇸🇰 podporiť

🇨🇳 支持 (zhīchí)

🇸🇮 podpreti

🇮🇸 styrkja

🇰🇿 қолдау

🇬🇪 მხარდაჭერა

🇦🇿 dəstək vermək

🇲🇽 reforzar

Etymology

The word 'bolster' originated in Middle English from the Old English word 'bolster' meaning a long pillow or cushion. It has been used in the English language since the 13th century. The verb form of 'bolster' emerged in the 16th century, derived from the noun meaning to support or prop up.

See also: bolstering.

Word Frequency Rank

At position #14,396, this word is part of sophisticated English vocabulary. It's useful for academic or professional contexts where precise language is needed.