strengthened
v.v. made something stronger, tougher, or more effective than it was before. You use this when talking about physical objects, feelings, or even plans.
v. the past tense and past participle of 'strengthen', meaning to increase the power, intensity, or structural integrity of something. Often describes the reinforcement of physical structures or the fortification of abstract concepts like arguments or relationships.
The workers strengthened the bridge with steel beams.
The recent success of the pilot program has significantly strengthened the team's case for a budget increase.
By incorporating feedback from diverse stakeholders, the committee strengthened the proposed legislation, ensuring it addressed the most critical systemic vulnerabilities identified during the public hearings.
Transitive when followed by an object; can also be used intransitively to describe something becoming stronger on its own.