Finesentence mobile logo
Sign in Login / Register

Bolstering Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

๐Ÿ’ช
Add to dictionary

bolstering

[หˆbษ™สŠlstษ™rษชล‹ ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Verb

supportive

To strengthen or support something physically or emotionally.

Synonyms

reinforce, strengthen, support.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

arrow down
Word Description / Examples
bolstering

Typically used in contexts where physical or emotional support is needed to improve confidence or strength.

  • The coach's encouragement was bolstering the team's morale.
  • She took a course to bolster her skills in project management.
strengthen

Used when making something more powerful, stable, or durable, either physically or metaphorically.

  • They implemented new policies to strengthen the company's financial position.
  • Regular exercise can strengthen your muscles.
support

Generally used to describe providing help, assistance, or encouragement, whether emotional, financial, or in other forms.

  • She supported her friend through difficult times.
  • They needed financial support to start the new business.
reinforce

Often used when providing additional support to make a concept, structure, or system stronger or more effective.

  • The construction workers reinforced the building with steel beams.
  • The teacher used more examples to reinforce the lesson.

Examples of usage

  • The company is bolstering its marketing campaign with a new social media strategy.
  • She bolstered her friend's confidence by giving her a pep talk before the interview.
Context #2 | Noun

furniture

A long, narrow pillow or cushion.

Synonyms

cushion, pad, pillow.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

arrow down
Word Description / Examples
cushion

To make something less severe or harsh; can also refer to a soft support used for seating.

  • The government issued financial aid to cushion the economic impact of the crisis.
  • He placed a cushion on the chair for extra comfort.
pillow

A soft object used to support the head while sleeping; generally not used metaphorically.

  • She fluffed her pillow before going to sleep.
  • The pillow was too soft and offered no support for her neck.
pad

To add extra material or content, often to make something softer or to fill space; can also refer to a soft, supportive product used for seating or protection.

  • She used extra paper to pad the report.
  • He wore knee pads to protect himself while skateboarding.

Examples of usage

  • She added a bolstering to her bed for extra comfort.
  • The yoga studio provides bolsters for students to use during relaxation poses.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Psychology

  • Studies show that positive reinforcement, a form of bolstering, can lead to better learning outcomes in children.
  • Emotional support from friends is known to bolster self-esteem, making individuals feel more capable and confident.
  • In therapy, bolstering techniques are often used to help clients build resilience and face their challenges more effectively.

Business

  • Companies often implement strategies for bolstering employee morale, which leads to increased productivity and job satisfaction.
  • In marketing, bolstering brand reputation through customer testimonials can significantly enhance consumer trust and loyalty.
  • Innovation is another form of bolstering; businesses invest in new technologies to strengthen their market position.

Education

  • Teachers use bolstering techniques like encouraging words and constructive feedback to motivate students and enhance learning.
  • Peer tutoring acts as a form of bolstering, as stronger students help their classmates understand the material better.
  • Programs designed to bolster literacy among children focus on additional reading support to improve overall skills.

Sports

  • In sports, a team's performance can be bolstered by effective strategy and strong teamwork, improving chances of victory.
  • Athletic trainers often bolster an athlete's physical strength through targeted workouts and nutrition.
  • Fan support can bolster a teamโ€™s morale, making players feel more confident during competitions.

Origin of 'bolstering'

Main points about word origin

  • The word comes from the Old English word 'bolster,' meaning a pillow or cushion, which symbolizes support.
  • In Middle English, 'bolsteren' was used as a verb to mean 'to support' or 'strengthen,' emphasizing the act of providing aid.
  • The transition to modern usage retains the essence of enhancing or strengthening something beyond just physical support.

The word 'bolstering' originated from the Middle English word 'bolstre', which came from the Old English 'bolster' meaning a long, thick pillow or cushion. The verb form of 'bolster' appeared in the mid-18th century with the meaning 'to support or reinforce'. Over time, 'bolstering' has evolved to also represent providing emotional support or strengthening in a non-physical sense.

See also: bolster.

Word Frequency Rank

At rank #27,072, this word represents specialized academic or technical vocabulary. It's less frequently encountered but may be valuable in specific contexts.