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

• harden
• fortify

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

While Italy aims to strengthen its vital connection to Sicily, China has been systematically building the world's highest bridges. —Doc Louallen, ABC News, 6 Aug. 2025

Honoring my Guatemalan ancestry only strengthens my commitment to America. —Jenny Goldsberry, The Washington Examiner, 6 Aug. 2025

The only power play Newcastle has left is to keep Isak and strengthen in other areas, with midfield and defence key too. —Harry De Cosemo, Forbes.com, 6 Aug. 2025

The single-leg balance challenge combines foot strengthening with functional stability. —Dana Santas, CNN Money, 5 Aug. 2025

Word History

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined at transitive sense

Rhymes for strengthen

• lengthen

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