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bolster
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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
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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

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