Reenforce: meaning, definitions and examples
πͺ
reenforce
[ ΛriΛΙͺnΛfΙΛrs ]
strengthen support
To reinforce means to make something stronger or more pronounced, usually by adding support or increasing its intensity. This can refer to physical structures, ideas, or forces.
Synonyms
bolster, fortify, strengthen, support.
Examples of usage
- The army used tanks to reinforce their position.
- We need to reinforce our argument with more evidence.
- New materials can help to reinforce the building.
- The teacher reinforced the lesson with additional examples.
add troops
In a military context, to reinforce can refer to the act of sending additional troops or resources to enhance a unit's capability during combat. This is critical in ensuring effectiveness in military operations.
Synonyms
augment, dispatch, reinstate, supplement.
Examples of usage
- The general ordered reinforcements to the front lines.
- Reinforcements arrived just in time for the battle.
- They reinforced their defenses with more soldiers.
- The navy sent reinforcements to assist the ground troops.
Etymology
The word 'reinforce' comes from the Middle French word 'reinforcer', which is derived from the Latin 're-' meaning 'again' and 'fortis' meaning 'strong'. The use of the term has evolved through various contexts, particularly in military and architectural terminology, where it denotes the act of making something stronger or more secure. The concept of reinforcement is also significant in psychological terms, referring to the process of encouraging or strengthening certain behaviors through rewards or support. Over time, 'reinforce' has been widely adopted in numerous fields, reflecting its versatile nature in both physical and abstract applications.