BOLSTER Synonyms: 58 Similar and Opposite Words

bolster 1 of 2

verb

Definition of bolster

as in to sustain

to hold up or serve as a foundation for used additional beams to bolster the ceiling

Synonyms & Similar Words

Relevance

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

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

Despite the additions of forwards Savio and Omar Marmoush, Mudryk was signed to bolster the depth at left wing, after missing out on Iliman Ndiaye, who joined Manchester City from Everton on deadline day. — Elias Burke, New York Times, 4 Sep. 2026 In a lawsuit filed last month in Sacramento County, party leaders claim the theft is to bolster a forthcoming whistleblower retaliation and harassment lawsuit against the party. — Lia Russell, Sacbee.com, 4 Sep. 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 See All Example Sentences for bolster

Recent Examples of Synonyms for bolster

Verb

For crews responsible for sustaining the Minuteman III fleet, that capability could prove valuable as the system’s service life continues.

— Aamir Khollam, Interesting Engineering, 5 Sep. 2026
The midfielder turned right-back sustained the damage during Sunday’s 4-3 defeat at Chelsea after he was struck in the face by the ball.

— Andy Naylor, New York Times, 4 Sep. 2026

Definition of sustain

Verb

Leeds, their defence reinforced by the arrival of Tarik Muharemovic, look like a tough nut to crack.

— Oliver Kay, New York Times, 4 Sep. 2026
Unlike ceramides, which reinforce the moisture barrier, or hyaluronic acid, which mainly hydrates at the surface, urea can moisturize and, at higher strengths, exfoliate dead skin cells.

— Christa Joanna Lee, Allure, 4 Sep. 2026

Definition of reinforce

Noun

The inspiration behind Keoghan’s signature eyebrow arch was fully revealed when Majors’ wife, Faith, approached Keoghan at the Kentucky Derby.

— Bryan Alexander, USA Today, 5 Sep. 2026
All three projects—the ballroom, the arch, and the Kennedy Center—may soon be moving forward simultaneously, red tape cleared (or ignored).

— Janay Kingsberry, The Atlantic, 5 Sep. 2026

Definition of arch

Verb

If the folks in charge really fixed the offensive line, maybe new coach Todd Monken’s offense can create big plays and support a defense that still has top talent.

— Zac Jackson, New York Times, 8 Sep. 2026
The documentary is narrated by actor Gary Sinise, whose own direction in life was profoundly affected by the attacks and ultimately inspired the creation of his foundation to support veterans, first responders, and their families.

— Amy DeLaura, The Washington Examiner, 7 Sep. 2026

Definition of support

Noun

Similarly, selling appreciated assets all at once can move you into a higher IRMAA bracket.

— Miranda Marquit, Encyclopedia Britannica, 3 Sep. 2026
Stefanski and Saleh are not in the same age bracket as McCarthy, Harbaugh and Monken, but their hires belong in the same argument.

— Jason Lloyd, New York Times, 3 Sep. 2026

Definition of bracket

Verb

West Virginia’s Cam Cook — the nation’s leading rusher last season — is the only other running back with 30 carries in a game this year.

— The Athletic College Football Staff, New York Times, 9 Sep. 2026
The biggest aircraft in the fleet, Boeing’s 767-300F, typically carries about 116,000 lbs.

— Andrew Nusca, Fortune, 8 Sep. 2026

Definition of carry

Noun

Footwear is a key part of the strategy within several pillars outlined by Joseph Alkire, Kontoor’s president and chief financial officer.

— Vicki M. Young, Footwear News, 4 Sep. 2026
Sports remains the third pillar of the country strategy, according to Oishi, who cites Prime Video’s existing rights to MLB, NBA and live boxing coverage in Japan.

— Naman Ramachandran, Variety, 3 Sep. 2026

Definition of pillar

Browse Nearby Words

bolshevism

bolster

bolstered

See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

Style

“Bolster.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/bolster. Accessed 10 Sep. 2026.

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Synonyms of bolster

verb

noun

Example Sentences

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