# reinforcing

/ˌɹiɪnˈfɔɹsɪŋ/ (US) · /ɹˌiːɪnfˈɔːsɪŋ/ (UK)

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

## Senses

### 1. making stronger

adjective · CEFR B2

used to describe something that makes a structure or an idea stronger.

For teachers: serving to strengthen or support an existing structure, system, or argument.

- The architect added reinforcing steel bars to the concrete walls for safety.
- The study provided reinforcing evidence for the theory that sleep deprivation significantly impairs cognitive function in adults.

### 2. the act of strengthening

verb · CEFR B2

the action of making something stronger or more solid.

For teachers: the present participle of 'reinforce', describing the ongoing process of strengthening a physical object or a belief.

- They are reinforcing the bridge to make sure it can handle heavy trucks.
- By constantly praising the team's effort, the manager was reinforcing a culture of hard work and mutual respect.

### 3. a material that strengthens

noun · CEFR C1 · Technical

a material or thing that is added to something else to make it stronger.

For teachers: a material or component used to provide additional strength or support to a structure.

- The builder checked the reinforcing before pouring the concrete.
- The structural integrity of the hull depends on the quality of the internal reinforcing used during the manufacturing process.

## Examples

- The builder added reinforcing steel to the concrete wall.
- The teacher provided reinforcing feedback to help the students remember the new grammar rules.
- In structural engineering, reinforcing bars are essential for providing tension strength to concrete, which otherwise performs poorly under heavy stretching forces.

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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.