bolster
What does "bolster" mean?
To bolster means to support, strengthen, or reinforce something that is weak or in danger of failing. Visualize a crumbling wall being propped up by sturdy wooden beams or a sagging mattress being lifted by extra padding; the action is one of providing structural integrity or confidence to an entity that needs a boost. While it is often used in a physical sense, it is most commonly applied to abstract concepts like arguments, confidence, or the economy. You might bolster a claim with more evidence or bolster a teammate's spirits before a big presentation. It implies a deliberate effort to prevent collapse or decline.
"bolster" in conversation
Work presentation preparation
Do you think our proposal is strong enough to win the bid?
Do you think our proposal is strong enough to win the bid?
We should bolster our argument with some recent market data.
We should bolster our argument with some recent market data.
Used here to mean adding evidence to strengthen a weak point.
After a bad day
I feel like I'm not cut out for this job.
I feel like I'm not cut out for this job.
Don't say that! You've had so many wins lately; let me bolster your confidence with a few reminders.
Don't say that! You've had so many wins lately; let me bolster your confidence with a few reminders.
Used metaphorically to describe supporting someone's emotional state.
"bolster" in a sentence
The new law was designed to bolster the local economy.
The new law was designed to bolster the local economy.
She bolstered her case by providing several eyewitness accounts.
She bolstered her case by providing several eyewitness accounts.
The government intervened to bolster the failing bank against total collapse.
The government intervened to bolster the failing bank against total collapse.
