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Bolster: meaning, definitions and examples

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bolster

 

[ˈbəʊlstər ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

furniture

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

Synonyms

cushion, pad, pillow.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
bolster

A bolster is specifically a long, narrow pillow or cushion filled with cotton, down, or fibre. It's often used to support the back or neck, or for decorative purposes.

  • She placed a bolster behind her back for extra support while reading.
  • The bed was adorned with decorative bolsters at both ends.
cushion

A cushion is typically a soft bag filled with wool, feathers, air, foam, or other material. It's often used to provide comfort or support on chairs or sofas.

  • He sat on the cushioned chair for better comfort.
  • She placed a cushion on the floor for her meditation practice.
pillow

A pillow is a soft object used to support the head while sleeping, usually found on a bed. It can also be used for comfort or as part of home décor.

  • She fluffed her pillow before going to sleep.
  • The couch was decorated with colorful throw pillows.
pad

A pad refers to a flat object or stuffing typically used for protection, comfort, or to prevent damage. It can also refer to an absorbent material in hygiene products.

  • He added an extra pad to the seat to make it more comfortable.
  • She used felt pads to prevent the chair legs from scratching the floor.

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.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
bolster

Used when expressing the idea of adding extra support or encouragement to something, often to make it stronger or more effective.

  • The financial aid helped to bolster the small business during the economic downturn
  • The coach's pep talk bolstered the team's morale before the game
support

Often used to mean providing assistance, backing, or holding something up. This can be physical support or in terms of providing help or encouragement.

  • The company provides financial support to local charities
  • The beams support the roof of the house
strengthen

Used for a general enhancement of strength, whether it's physical, emotional, or structural. It can be used in a wide array of contexts from personal development to material properties.

  • Regular exercise will help strengthen your muscles
  • The government introduced policies to strengthen the economy
reinforce

Applicable when referring to the act of making something stronger or more resistant, especially in a physical or structural context, but also in abstract concepts like ideas or behaviors.

  • The new steel beams were added to reinforce the building's structure
  • The teacher used extra exercises to reinforce the students' understanding of the topic

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.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

  • The word 'bolster' comes from the Old English 'boltres', which meant a pillow or cushion.
  • In Middle English, it referred to a long, narrow cushion used for support.
  • The current form of the word has been used in English since the 14th century.

Psychology

  • In psychological terms, bolstering can refer to providing support that boosts a person's confidence or morale.
  • Research shows that positive reinforcement acts as a bolster in learning, encouraging more effort and resilience.
  • Social support is often referred to as a 'bolster' against stress, helping individuals cope better with challenges.

Literature

  • In literature, characters often seek to bolster their relationships through acts of kindness and assurance.
  • The theme of bolstering is common in stories where protagonists overcome adversity with the help of friends or mentors.
  • Poets often use ‘bolster’ metaphorically to describe emotional support or strength in critical times.

Architecture

  • In architecture, bolsters are structural elements used to support beams or walls.
  • Historical structures often included bolstering techniques to enhance stability against natural forces.
  • Modern architects use various materials in bolstering designs to accommodate environmental changes.

Pop Culture

  • In fitness and health culture, 'bolstering' is often used to describe supplements or routines that support overall wellness.
  • Popular films often depict relationships where friends bolster each other through tough times, reinforcing the importance of camaraderie.
  • In marketing, brands commonly use the term to describe how their products bolster consumer confidence.

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

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.