ˈboʊlstɚ
bolsters; bolstered; bolstering
: to make (something) stronger or better : to give support to (something)
She came with me to bolster my confidence.
a convincing argument that was bolstered by the speaker's reputation
He received news that bolstered [=lifted] his spirits.
She is thinking of ways to bolster her career/image.
plural bolsters
: a long bag of cloth completely filled with soft material : a long pillow or cushion
Cite this Entry
“Bolster.” Merriam-Webster.com Simple Definition, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/simple/bolster. Accessed 18 Jun. 2026.
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