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 verb1archaic : to fasten tightly : bind2 a: to prepare for use by making taut b: prepare, steel <brace yourself for the shock> c: invigorate, freshen3: to turn (a sail yard) by means of a brace4 a: to furnish or support with a brace <heavily braced against the wind> b: to make stronger : reinforce5: to put or plant firmly <braces his foot in the stirrup>6: to waylay especially with demands or questionsintransitive verb1: to take heart —used with up2: to get ready (as for an attack)