# strengthening

/ˈstɹɛŋθənɪŋ/ (US) · /stɹˈɛŋθənɪŋ/ (UK)

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/strengthening
Updated: 2026-06-20

## Senses

### 1. making something stronger

noun · CEFR B2

the process of making something stronger, such as a building, a relationship, or your body.

For teachers: the process of increasing the physical, structural, or abstract strength of an entity.

- The doctor recommended exercises for the strengthening of his back muscles.
- The structural strengthening of the bridge was completed ahead of schedule, ensuring it could withstand the increased traffic load expected during the summer festival.

## Examples

- The strengthening of the bridge took several months.
- The central bank announced new measures aimed at the strengthening of the national currency against the dollar.
- The structural strengthening of the historic cathedral required a delicate balance between modern engineering techniques and the preservation of original medieval masonry.

---

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.