supportive

[suh-pawr-tiv, -pohr-]

adjective

1. giving support.

2. providing sympathy or encouragement.

   His family was supportive of his attempts to be a writer.

3. providing additional help, information, etc.; auxiliary.

   manufacturers of supportive materials.

4. Medicine/Medical.,  helping to maintain a normal physiological balance, as by the intravenous administration of required nutriment.

Other Word Forms

• supportiveness noun
• nonsupportive adjective
• unsupportive adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of supportive¹

First recorded in 1585–95; support + -ive

Example Sentences

If it seems odd that these fiercely talented, independent women are so preoccupied with marriage, it helps to understand the overwhelmingly supportive and loving environment their own parents created.

From BBC

The club are said to remain supportive of their head coach despite the damaging loss which left them 14th in the Premier League table.

From BBC

Patients said while some were "hardworking" and "supportive", others had little experience with mental health issues and sometimes lacked compassion.

From BBC

In a statement posted on social media, Young reassured fans and thanked them for the supportive messages.

From BBC

"Strictly knew a while ago, and they've been so supportive of my decision, and obviously looking after me as well. I'm very well looked after on Strictly and loved, very, very loved."

From BBC