Definition of emboldennext

Synonym Chooser

How does the verb embolden differ from other similar words?

Some common synonyms of embolden are encourage, hearten, and inspirit. While all these words mean "to fill with courage or strength of purpose," embolden implies the giving of courage sufficient to overcome timidity or reluctance.

emboldened by her first success, she tried an even more difficult climb

When might encourage be a better fit than embolden?

While the synonyms encourage and embolden are close in meaning, encourage suggests the raising of one's confidence especially by an external agency.

the teacher's praise encouraged the students to greater efforts

When could hearten be used to replace embolden?

Although the words hearten and embolden have much in common, hearten implies the lifting of dispiritedness or despondency by an infusion of fresh courage or zeal.

a hospital patient heartened by good news

When is inspirit a more appropriate choice than embolden?

The words inspirit and embolden are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, inspirit, somewhat literary, implies instilling life, energy, courage, or vigor into something.

patriots inspirited the people to resist

Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of embolden What the 1956 motto does best is embolden pastors and politicians who repeat the tired myth that the United States is a Christian nation. David Williamson, The Orlando Sentinel, 14 June 2026 Smyth said the nonprofit theater has been emboldened by its status as artist-led. David L. Coddon, San Diego Union-Tribune, 7 June 2026 After several records of muted ideas, Death Cab for Cutie sound emboldened again while recalling the songwriting traits that once set them apart in a sea of indie-rock bands who’ve since petered out. Nina Corcoran, Pitchfork, 6 June 2026 While the Seahawks were correct in their evaluation, the $245 million extension Wilson signed with the Broncos emboldened him. Mike Sando, New York Times, 5 June 2026 See All Example Sentences for embolden
Recent Examples of Synonyms for embolden
Verb
  • Thomas Tuchel was appointed with the simple task of coaching England to a World Cup win, and England showed early signs of his tactical acumen, but also his ability to inspire his players.
    Andrew Greif, NBC news, 19 June 2026
  • Serving East African street food inspired by husband-and-wife owners Hamissi Mamba and Nadia Nijimbere’s native Burundi, Waka delivers African flavors in small bites.
    USA TODAY Network, USA Today, 19 June 2026
Verb
  • While most college broadcast-journalism programs tend to encourage would-be talent to ditch their regional accents in favor of a more neutral, untraceable delivery, TV pros who came up in the bigs aren’t subject to that sort of verbal nullification.
    Anthony Crupi, Sportico.com, 12 June 2026
  • The event, called Fulfillment Center, was geared toward people of all ages who were encouraged to come, put their phone in a cotton bag and engage with one of the many activities centered around reading, writing, making and playing at a long, communal table.
    Audrey Pachuta, Chicago Tribune, 12 June 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Embolden.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/embolden. Accessed 19 Jun. 2026.

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