bolstering

present participle of bolster
1
as in sustaining
to hold up or serve as a foundation for used additional beams to bolster the ceiling

Synonyms & Similar Words

Relevance
2
as in reinforcing
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

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 bolstering The statement noted that such a framework shall enable both sides to improve their economic development while bolstering their national security in the Indo-Pacific space. — Arthur Zaczkiewicz, Footwear News, 25 Sep. 2026 Colleges are experimenting with business-specific internships and bolstering training in AI tools. — Heather Hollingsworth, Los Angeles Times, 24 Sep. 2026 Finally, the university’s location in Naperville and the success of their football team are also key factors in bolstering enrollment, Gòkè-Paríolá said. — Carolyn Stein, Chicago Tribune, 24 Sep. 2026 The Chicago Blackhawks opened training camp with three-time Stanley Cup champion Patrick Kane back on the roster, bolstering their own hopes of returning to the postseason. — Matt Zahn, CBS News, 18 Sep. 2026 The Mets initially brought in Young on a one-year, major-league contract in December of 2024 with an eye on bolstering the club’s depth. — New York Daily News, 18 Sep. 2026 Then, assign every dollar that hits your bank account a job, whether that is covering bills or rent, bolstering your emergency fund or paying off student loans. — Becca Stanek, TheWeek, 16 Sep. 2026 China reported downbeat consumption and investment figures, bolstering economists’ calls for fiscal stimulus to drive growth in the world’s second-biggest economy. — Prashant Rao, semafor.com, 15 Sep. 2026 Many sources The Athletic spoke to for this story believe the guardrails around young players need bolstering. — Jordan Campbell, New York Times, 14 Sep. 2026
Recent Examples of Synonyms for bolstering
Verb
  • Arneson’s son was left orphaned and is now being raised by his grandparents after sustaining minor injuries in the crash, according to the Loveland Reporter-Herald.
    — Ingrid Vasquez, PEOPLE, 24 Sep. 2026
  • Expanding shipyard capacity without sustaining the suppliers is unlikely to deliver the fleet the nation needs.
    — George Whittier, Forbes.com, 23 Sep. 2026
Verb
  • There is also evidence of second-round effects from energy costs, reinforcing the risk that inflation is becoming entrenched, BofA said.
    — Lim Hui Jie, CNBC, 29 Sep. 2026
  • Experts have told me 2027 will be even worse than this year, and recent developments at sizable public-sector employers are reinforcing just how catastrophic things are becoming.
    — Bob Herman, STAT, 28 Sep. 2026
Verb
  • Pink Pony is a flagship program of Ralph Lauren’s Timeless by Design 2030 citizenship and sustainability strategy, reflecting Ralph Lauren’s deep commitment to supporting the fight against cancer.
    — Lisa Lockwood, Footwear News, 29 Sep. 2026
  • Furthermore, the models revealed the reservoir could hold between 350 million and 480 million cubic meters of gas while supporting a daily throughput of 750,000 cubic meters.
    — Mrigakshi Dixit, Interesting Engineering, 29 Sep. 2026
Verb
  • The resulting frame weighs just six pounds without the battery, despite supporting a drone capable of carrying 110 pounds.
    — Kaif Shaikh, Interesting Engineering, 30 Sep. 2026
  • Hurling is one of Ireland’s national sports, and involves moving a ball down the field, either by hitting it or carrying it for up to four steps.
    — Catherine Garcia, TheWeek, 29 Sep. 2026
Verb
  • Kathleen Lord-Jones, an aviation cabin safety expert from Robson Forensic, explained the meticulous process of upholding food safety practices, from kitchen to tray table.
    — Joey Skladany, Travel + Leisure, 12 Sep. 2026
  • And neither were the co-hosts, who felt their fun, feel-good, not-that-serious event was suddenly being accused of upholding white supremacy.
    — E. Alex Jung, Vulture, 8 Sep. 2026
Verb
  • Upworthy Studios is launching with a goal to push beyond digital publishing and social content to new entertainment formats and partnerships that can bring the brand to new platforms, while staying true to its positive, humanity-first storytelling.
    — Alex Weprin, HollywoodReporter, 30 Sep. 2026
  • The Disneyland Resort has announced new fitness classes across its two parks, an early morning perk for guests staying at one of its three hotels.
    — Todd Martens, Los Angeles Times, 29 Sep. 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Bolstering.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/bolstering. Accessed 3 Oct. 2026.

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