Langimage
English

reinforce

|re-in-force|

B2

🇺🇸

/ˌriːɪnˈfɔːrs/

🇬🇧

/ˌriːɪnˈfɔːs/

strengthen

Etymology
Etymology Information

'reinforce' originates from Old French, specifically the word 'reinforsser,' where 're-' meant 'again' and 'enforcier' meant 'to strengthen.'

Historical Evolution

'reinforsser' transformed into the Middle English word 'reinforsen,' and eventually became the modern English word 'reinforce.'

Meaning Changes

Initially, it meant 'to strengthen again,' but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'to strengthen or support.'

Meanings by Part of Speech

Verb 1

to strengthen or support an object or substance, especially with additional material.

The builders used steel bars to reinforce the concrete.

Synonyms

Antonyms

Verb 2

to make a feeling, idea, or habit stronger or more intense.

The teacher's praise reinforced the student's confidence.

Synonyms

Antonyms

Last updated: 2025/01/11 11:35