as in refreshing
having a renewing effect on the state of the body or mind
a chilly but bracing day
Synonyms & Similar Words
Relevance
Antonyms & Near Antonyms
1
as in stimulating
to give life, vigor, or spirit to
the pep talk braced the team up for the second half
Synonyms & Similar Words
Antonyms & Near Antonyms
2
as in sustaining
to hold up or serve as a foundation for
several boards braced the wall
Synonyms & Similar Words
3
as in fortifying
to prepare (oneself) mentally or emotionally
she braced herself for the job interview
Synonyms & Similar Words
Antonyms & Near Antonyms
Example Sentences
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Recent Examples of bracing
Evan Clark, Footwear News, 28 Jan. 2026
The classic styles run from Sercial, the driest and most bracing, through Verdelho, which sits in the medium-dry range, to Boal (or Bual) for medium-sweet wines, and Malvasia (often labeled Malmsey) at the richest end of the spectrum.
—Lauren Mowery, Forbes.com, 22 Jan. 2026
Nicholas Riccardi, Los Angeles Times, 20 Feb. 2026
Anger and bracing closes the door.
—Chris Willman, Variety, 20 Feb. 2026
See All Example Sentences for bracing
Adjective
That proved to be more bracing than encouraging.
—Evan Clark, Footwear News, 28 Jan. 2026
The classic styles run from Sercial, the driest and most bracing, through Verdelho, which sits in the medium-dry range, to Boal (or Bual) for medium-sweet wines, and Malvasia (often labeled Malmsey) at the richest end of the spectrum.
—Lauren Mowery, Forbes.com, 22 Jan. 2026
Verb
Election officials across the country, especially those in states controlled politically by Democrats, are bracing for more turmoil during this year’s elections, when control of Congress is on the line.
—Nicholas Riccardi, Los Angeles Times, 20 Feb. 2026
Anger and bracing closes the door.
—Chris Willman, Variety, 20 Feb. 2026
See All Example Sentences for bracing
Recent Examples of Synonyms for bracing
Adjective
-
There’s a refreshing lack of antler decor, and instead photography and coffee table books pay homage to the American West.—
Condé Nast,
Condé Nast Traveler,
20 Feb. 2026
-
The agua fresca was more cloying than refreshing.—
Gustavo Arellano,
Los Angeles Times,
19 Feb. 2026
Verb
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Your 3rd House of Communication receives a stimulating Solar Eclipse, creating a fresh channel for neighborhood ties and the everyday conversations that keep life moving.—
Tarot.com,
Chicago Tribune,
17 Feb. 2026
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Key Takeaways Dandelion tea helps digestion and gut health by protecting liver health, stimulating bile production, and supporting a healthy microbiome (community of microbes in the gut).—
Cory Martin,
Verywell Health,
17 Feb. 2026
Verb
-
Singleton acknowledged that sustaining the coordinated, multi-agency model beyond the World Cup will be difficult once the spotlight fades.—
Cierra Morgan,
Los Angeles Times,
20 Feb. 2026
-
The breath of air, and the freedom of movement, only reinforce the moral asphyxiation taking place inside—and emphasize the unyielding authority sustaining the city’s public life.—
Richard Brody,
New Yorker,
19 Feb. 2026
Verb
-
The five-day trade fair draws Black businesspersons from dozens of states fortifying Jackson’s assertion that economic development is the way to Black power.—
Darcel Rockett,
Chicago Tribune,
17 Feb. 2026
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If healthy, Burrow (5-3 as a starter in 2025) will help significantly elevate the Bengals, as will a free agency and draft devoted to fortifying the defense.—
Mike Jones,
New York Times,
12 Feb. 2026
Adjective
-
Set the scene Palm Springs has long been a retreat for those seeking a restorative weekend away from the bustle of nearby Los Angeles and, come winter when the temps dip in most places around the States, those desperate for a dose of winter sun.—
Condé Nast,
Condé Nast Traveler,
21 Feb. 2026
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This composition gives the oil both restorative and antioxidant functions, supporting skin renewal, helping to neutralize free radicals, and improving the appearance of aging over time.—
Beatrice Zocchi,
Vogue,
19 Feb. 2026
Verb
-
The dynamic Sun in your 10th House of Career and Status squares rebellious Uranus in your 1st House of Identity, stirring shifts in your visibility.—
Tarot.com,
Chicago Tribune,
16 Feb. 2026
-
Curiosity widens your world as the intuitive Moon enters your 9th House of Higher Learning, stirring questions about subjects and plans that reach beyond your daily routine.—
Tarot.com,
The Orlando Sentinel,
15 Feb. 2026
Verb
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The post included a photo of a teen carrying a realistic-looking toy pistol, which was captured by a doorbell camera in 2024, said Ziggy Azarcon, public information officer with the Irvine Police Department.—
Alex Wigglesworth,
Los Angeles Times,
20 Feb. 2026
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Blue Ghost will land on the lunar far side carrying LuSee Night, which will deploy directly from the spacecraft.—
Richard Tribou,
The Orlando Sentinel,
20 Feb. 2026
Verb
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With Bloomingdale’s distancing itself from the competition and strengthening its luxury and contemporary profile, the challenge is clear — how to sustain the momentum and build upon last year’s gains.—
David Moin,
Footwear News,
18 Feb. 2026
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South Dakota state senators revived and approved a bill Tuesday that was described by its sponsor as strengthening parental rights, but was criticized by opponents for its potential to undercut protections against abuse and neglect, delay urgent health care decisions and encourage lawsuits.—
Meghan O’Brien,
States Newsroom,
18 Feb. 2026
Cite this Entry
“Bracing.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/bracing. Accessed 24 Feb. 2026.
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