1. Quizzes & Games
  2. Word of the Day
  3. Video
  4. New Words
 

bolster
About Our Definitions: All forms of a word (noun, verb, etc.) are now displayed on one page.

4 ENTRIES FOUND:
  1. bolster
  2. bolster plate
  3. hawse bolster
  4. swing beam

1bol·ster

noun \ˈbōl-stər\

Definition of BOLSTER

1
: a long pillow or cushion
2
: a structural part designed to eliminate friction or provide support or bearing
See bolster defined for English-language learners »
See bolster defined for kids »

Origin of BOLSTER

Middle English, from Old English; akin to Old English belg bag — more at belly
First Known Use: before 12th century

Rhymes with BOLSTER

holster, pollster

2bolster

transitive verb
bol·stered bol·ster·ing \-st(ə-)riŋ\

Definition of BOLSTER

1
: to support with or as if with a bolster : reinforce
2
: to give a boost to <news that bolstered his spirits>
— bol·ster·er \-stər-ər\ noun

Examples of BOLSTER

  1. She came with me to bolster my confidence.
  2. a convincing argument that was bolstered by the speaker's reputation
  3. She is thinking of ways to bolster her career.

First Known Use of BOLSTER

15th century

Related to BOLSTER

Synonyms
bear, support, brace, buttress, carry, prop (up), shore (up), stay, sustain, undergird, underpin, uphold

Learn More About BOLSTER

Browse

Next Word in the Dictionary: bolster plate
Previous Word in the Dictionary: bolson
All Words Near: bolster

Seen & Heard

What made you want to look up bolster? Please tell us where you read or heard it (including the quote, if possible).

Name That Thing

Take Our 10-Question Quiz

Get Our Free Apps
Voice Search, Favorites,
Word of the Day, and More
iPhone | iPad | Android | More
Join Us on FB & Twitter
Get the Word of the Day and More
Facebook | Twitter