# bolster

/ˈboʊɫstɝ/ (US) · /bˈəʊlstɐ/ (UK)

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/bolster
Updated: 2026-08-08

## Senses

### 1. to support or strengthen

verb · CEFR B2

to make something stronger or better.

For teachers: to support, strengthen, or reinforce something, especially an abstract concept like confidence or an argument.

- The new evidence helped bolster her case in court.
- The central bank's decision to lower interest rates was intended to bolster consumer confidence during the economic downturn.

Usage: This is a transitive verb that always takes a direct object.

### 3. structural support

noun · CEFR C2 · Technical

a piece of wood or metal used to support a heavy weight in a machine or building.

For teachers: a structural part designed to provide support or reduce friction, such as a timber on a post or a plate in a machine.

- The engineer checked the steel bolster for signs of wear.
- The heavy-duty wagon was fitted with a reinforced bolster to ensure the axle could withstand the pressure of the timber load.

## Examples

- The new data bolstered her argument.
- The manager offered praise to bolster the team's confidence before the big presentation.
- The government introduced new subsidies to bolster the struggling agricultural sector against rising global market prices.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.