had been emboldening

• past perfect progressive

  past perfect progressive

  Used to describe an action that was ongoing continuously in the past up until another past event interrupted it.

  of embolden.
  embolden

  verb (used with object)

  to make bold or bolder; hearten; encourage.

Related Words

• buoy
• energize
• inspire
• invigorate
• reassure
• spur
• sway