Synonyms of bolster

bolster 1 of 2

verb

1

as in to sustain

to hold up or serve as a foundation for

used additional beams to bolster the ceiling

Synonyms & Similar Words

• sustain
• support
• carry
• uphold
• stay
• buttress
• underpin
• brace
• bear
• undergird
• shore (up)
• steady
• prop (up)
• underlie
• truss

2

as in to reinforce

to provide evidence or information for (as a claim or idea)

a couple of tournament wins would bolster the extravagant claims that have been made on behalf of the young golfer

Synonyms & Similar Words

• reinforce
• prove
• support
• buttress
• corroborate
• confirm
• establish
• back
• substantiate
• verify
• shore (up)
• validate
• affirm
• avouch

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

• undermine
• weaken
• undercut

bolster

2 of 2

noun

as in arch

Related Words

• arch
• bracket
• pillar
• cantilever
• column
• bearing
• support
• pedestal
• girder
• stand
• mounting
• reinforcement
• peg
• mount
• pilaster
• shore
• crutch
• stake
• prop
• spur
• shoring
• buttress
• strut
• foundation
• brace
• truss
• stay
• post
• underpinning
• frame
• base
• stanchion
• stilt

Example Sentences

Recent Examples of bolster

Verb

So who made the strongest cases in Saturday’s 16-15 road loss to the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, and who needs to flash in next week’s preseason finale to bolster their case? — Blair Kerkhoff, Kansas City Star, 23 Aug. 2026

Beijing has moved to insulate itself economically, slashing crude imports nearly 50% since the war started, according to The Wall Street Journal, and bolstering domestic energy. — Lauren Morganbesser, semafor.com, 23 Aug. 2026

Noun

The 16-way adjustable sport seats are standard, while performance seats shelled in carbon fiber—presenting more aggressive thigh and shoulder bolsters—are optionally available. — Bradley Iger, Robb Report, 8 May 2026

The blade is made from high-carbon 440 stainless steel, the handle is magnolia, and the bolster is crafted from natural horn. — Jesse Raub, Bon Appetit Magazine, 1 May 2026