encouragement

noun

en·​cour·​age·​ment in-ˈkər-ij-mənt 

-ˈkə-rij-, 

en-

1

: the act of encouraging : the state of being encouraged

2

: something that encourages

Synonyms of encouragement

• incentive
• impetus
• motivation
• stimulus

Examples of encouragement in a Sentence

Our aim is the encouragement of investment.

the encouragement of plant growth

teachers who give their students a lot of encouragement

With support and encouragement from their parents, the students organized a fundraiser.

They offered him gifts of money and other encouragements.

Recent Examples on the Web

Providers recognize this transition has its ups and downs for their patients and offer some words of encouragement. — Isabel Lopez, Parents, 14 July 2026

Harper’s statement tries to accomplish the goal of distancing himself from the video and encouragement of sports betting. — Michael McCann, Sportico.com, 14 July 2026

As for the here and now, England will take encouragement from Switzerland’s performance against Argentina. — Stuart James, New York Times, 12 July 2026

That encouragement from Orlando’s new coaching staff under Sean Sweeney has translated to hard work on the court from Penda. — Jason Beede, The Orlando Sentinel, 10 July 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1549, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Rhymes for encouragement

• discouragement