Main Entry: ¹brace

Pronunciation: \ˈbrās\

Function: verb

Inflected Form(s): braced; brac·ing

Etymology: Middle English, from Anglo-French bracer to embrace, from brace

Date: 14th century

transitive verb 1 archaic : to fasten tightly : bind
2 a : to prepare for use by making taut b : prepare, steel <brace yourself for the shock> c : invigorate, freshen
3 : to turn (a sail yard) by means of a brace
4 a : to furnish or support with a brace <heavily braced against the wind> b : to make stronger : reinforce
5 : to put or plant firmly <braces his foot in the stirrup>
6 : to waylay especially with demands or questionsintransitive verb 1 : to take heart —used with up
2 : to get ready (as for an attack)