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

As the voice behind @thetireddad, his Instagram account with around 1 million followers, Gustin has built a movement founded on relatable honesty and mutual encouragement. — Christian Dashiell Published, Parents, 18 June 2026

By July, a garden in full bloom may need some encouragement to keep its beautiful flowers in supply. — Karen Brewer Grossman, Southern Living, 17 June 2026

In the caption of her post, Sánchez Bezos shared words of encouragement for children who are struggling with reading or speaking. — Ashley Hume, FOXNews.com, 17 June 2026

Several students said Gilliam's encouragement made a lasting impression during the two-week camp. — Alexa Liacko, CBS News, 15 June 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1549, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Rhymes for encouragement

• discouragement