bolster 1 of 2

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

Synonyms & Similar Words

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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
In addition to extending the Force 10 story further style-wise, it is also meant to bolster the average basket size. Lily Templeton, WWD, 14 Mar. 2025 An over-reliance on biography can dull a music doc, turning it into a paint-by-numbers enterprise, but just the right amount can bolster it. Lovia Gyarkye, The Hollywood Reporter, 14 Mar. 2025
Noun
Turn your neck to one side and rest your head on the bolster. Aubrey Bailey, Pt, Dpt, Cht, Verywell Health, 24 Jan. 2025 The braided side bolsters can also be reshaped to fit around a dog’s body to be even more comforting. Madison Yauger, Peoplemag, 1 Aug. 2024 See All Example Sentences for bolster
Recent Examples of Synonyms for bolster
Verb
  • The veteran lineman played well during his first season as an NFL starting center before sustaining the notable injury in Week 5.
    Mike Kaye, Charlotte Observer, 9 Mar. 2025
  • The country's fertility rate last year stood at just 1.0 births per woman, far below the replacement level of 2.1 needed to sustain population growth.
    William Lambers, Newsweek, 9 Mar. 2025
Verb
  • If employees fear looking uninformed or worry that questioning leadership will lead to trouble, their brains shift into play it safe mode, blocking curiosity and reinforcing silos.
    Dr. Diane Hamilton, Forbes, 14 Mar. 2025
  • Doctor Reveals Shocking Responses When People Find Out Husband's Profession Looking back, the experience has only reinforced what Jackson believes about love and fate.
    Mark Davis, Newsweek, 14 Mar. 2025
Noun
  • Other ideas include: Transforming your space into something magical with balloon arches Setting up tents for a cozy sleep space Stringing some fairy lights for atmosphere Doing a special table setting like a tea party, or something that matches your theme Don’t Forget About the Food!
    ​Wendy Wisner, Parents, 13 Mar. 2025
  • All the whining wah-wah’s and fuzz tones accentuated her arch, knowing tone.
    Stephen Thomas Erlewine, Rolling Stone, 12 Mar. 2025
Verb
  • Abelson, who was nominated by President Biden, agreed with the plaintiffs that the executive orders discourage businesses, organizations and public entities from openly supporting diversity, equity and inclusion.
    Lindsay Whitehurst, Los Angeles Times, 15 Mar. 2025
  • Vitale succeeds Donatella Versace, who will assume the role of chief brand ambassador, focused on supporting Versace’s philanthropic and charitable efforts.
    Alexandra Harrell, Sourcing Journal, 14 Mar. 2025
Noun
  • The men's quarterfinal loss in the conference tournament left the Aztecs on the bubble, but the team has now made the bracket for five straight years.
    Kate Murphy, Axios, 17 Mar. 2025
  • At least the Badgers have a relatively easy bracket, and should cruise past Montana in their opener in Denver.
    Paul Sullivan, Chicago Tribune, 16 Mar. 2025
Verb
  • The company billed itself as a one-stop production shop that could carry content ideas all the way to development, with the infrastructure in place to handle marketing and distribution on its own.
    Winston Cho, The Hollywood Reporter, 19 Mar. 2025
  • The charges carry a possible 5-year prison sentence.
    Rosemary Westwood, NPR, 19 Mar. 2025
Noun
  • By focusing on these 13 key pillars, India is weaving a future where tradition meets technology, and growth is inclusive and sustainable.
    Cassell Ferere, Forbes, 9 Mar. 2025
  • Since the brand’s beginnings, Valeria Campello has built the lingerie company’s pillars on fostering individuality, confidence, and femininity.
    Conçetta Ciarlo, Vogue, 7 Mar. 2025
Verb
  • While many associated the Jacksonville Roar with their spirit and pep on the field at games, both the mother-daughter duo emphasize that their duties upon upholding the Florida franchise's cheerleader title expand beyond the sidelines, too.
    Skyler Caruso, People.com, 19 Mar. 2025
  • Ensuring accountability Beyond mere storage, the National Archives plays a vital role in upholding democracy.
    Elizabeth Call, The Conversation, 19 Mar. 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Bolster.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/bolster. Accessed 23 Mar. 2025.

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