strengthen

verb

strength·​en ˈstreŋ(k)-thən 

ˈstren(t)-

strengthened; strengthening ˈstreŋ(k)th-niŋ 

ˈstren(t)th-;

ˈstreŋ(k)-thə-,

ˈstren(t)-

transitive verb

: to make stronger

intransitive verb

: to become stronger

strengthener

ˈstreŋ(k)th-nər 

ˈstren(t)th-;

ˈstreŋ(k)-thə-

ˈstren(t)-

noun

Synonyms

• beef (up)
• fortify
• harden
• toughen

Examples of strengthen in a Sentence

These exercises will strengthen your stomach muscles.

He takes herbs to strengthen his immune system.

The development of new electronic products has strengthened the company's position as the leader in digital technology.

Holidays often serve to strengthen bonds between family members.

Their financial situation strengthened her determination to find a new career.

The team has been strengthened by the addition of several new players.

The winds are expected to strengthen.

The economy is slowly strengthening.

The Canadian dollar is strengthening against the U.S. dollar.

The trade restrictions will strengthen the pound.

Recent Examples on the Web

At the same time, the brain can also strengthen in profound ways. —Morgan Haefner, Quartz, 13 May 2024

Recent additions to its portfolio of mines and a significant increase in gold reserves have strengthened its position as a notable figure in the global gold market. —William Mullane, USA TODAY, 12 May 2024

Word History

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined at transitive sense

Kids Definition

strengthen

verb

strength·​en ˈstreŋ(k)-thən 

strengthened; strengthening ˈstreŋ(k)th-(ə-)niŋ 

: to make or become stronger

strengthener

-(ə-)nər 

noun