bolster 1 of 2

Definition of bolsternext
1
as in to sustain
to hold up or serve as a foundation for used additional beams to bolster the ceiling

Synonyms & Similar Words

Relevance
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

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

bolster

2 of 2

noun

Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of bolster
Verb
Takaichi has pledged to revise security and defense policies by December to bolster Japan’s military capabilities, lifting a ban on lethal weapons exports and moving further away from postwar pacifist principles. Mari Yamaguchi, Fortune, 19 Feb. 2026 Or to put it another way, each investment bolsters resilience, but that requires proactive leadership and capital planning. Jasmin Malik Chua, Sourcing Journal, 19 Feb. 2026
Noun
Each end is equipped with a removable bolster pillow to create a cozy spot to undo your laces at the end of the day, while the interior cubby is spacious enough to hold anything from vibrant bedding to seasonal decor. Yelena Moroz Alpert, Architectural Digest, 8 Jan. 2026 The environment was soothing and cozy, with comfortable bolster pillows and sheep skin rugs to compliment the atmosphere created by the colorful bowls and calming and supportive sentiments of our guide, Rebecca. Claudia Fisher, Travel + Leisure, 13 Nov. 2025 See All Example Sentences for bolster
Recent Examples of Synonyms for bolster
Verb
  • But faith alone will not sustain Minneapolis’ road to recovery.
    Yahya Salem, CNN Money, 17 Feb. 2026
  • The Longhorns have won four games in a row -- largely against lower-level league teams -- and appear in position to sustain their run this week.
    Tom Murphy, Arkansas Online, 17 Feb. 2026
Verb
  • To reshape the Mountain View pond and reinforce levees against sea-level rise and storm surges, crews imported 180,000 cubic yards of fill dirt from local construction sites.
    Ryan Macasero, Mercury News, 21 Feb. 2026
  • Both names jumped as a result, reinforcing the narrative of relentless AI demand and a fresh wave of hyperscaler spending.
    Morgan Chittum, CNBC, 21 Feb. 2026
Noun
  • In addition, the arch leading to the house was inspired by Gothic architecture.
    Jazz Tangcay, Variety, 14 Feb. 2026
  • On the far wall, framed by a red-and-gold Gothic arch, was the Black Virgin, a doll-like wooden figure that pilgrims come to see.
    Robert F. Worth, The Atlantic, 13 Feb. 2026
Verb
  • Eric adored his fans and is forever grateful for the outpouring of love and support he’s received.
    Alexandra Del Rosario, Los Angeles Times, 20 Feb. 2026
  • Knight will be at her now-fiancée’s 1500m race Friday to support Bowe.
    Michael Russo, New York Times, 20 Feb. 2026
Noun
  • Birdville’s Robin Conkle finished as a runner-up in the girls Class 5A 135-pound bracket.
    Charles Baggarly, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 16 Feb. 2026
  • For the first time, the selection committee will release the teams that will host the first two rounds in alphabetical order the day before the bracket is revealed.
    Doug Feinberg, Chicago Tribune, 15 Feb. 2026
Verb
  • Keough alone could carry the film, embodying the most peculiar mix of lust and off-kilter desire in her baby-blue thigh high boots.
    David Opie, IndieWire, 15 Feb. 2026
  • He was pictured carrying a Louis Vuitton box into the restaurant—perhaps a Valentine’s Day gift for Rihanna?
    Kelsey Stewart, Footwear News, 15 Feb. 2026
Noun
  • Add a Sterling Check saute pan or casserole dish to your cookware with the brand’s signature pattern, add matching pillar candles to any room, or set the table with White Flower Market dinner plates and Royal English Garden plates for dessert in stunning floral patterns.
    Caley Sturgill, Southern Living, 15 Feb. 2026
  • Additionally, Rogers said another pillar of his housing plan is slashing regulatory barriers that make housing more expensive.
    Zach Halaschak, The Washington Examiner, 15 Feb. 2026
Verb
  • Habba resigned from her post in December after an appeals court upheld the earlier ruling.
    JESSICA HILL THE ASSOCIATED PRESS, Arkansas Online, 19 Feb. 2026
  • Habba resigned from her post in December after an appeals court upheld the earlier ruling.
    Jessica Hill, Los Angeles Times, 18 Feb. 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Bolster.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/bolster. Accessed 22 Feb. 2026.

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