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View synonyms for reinforce

reinforce

Also re·en·force,

[ree-in-fawrs, -fohrs]

verb (used with object)

reinforced, reinforcing 
  1. to strengthen with some added piece, support, or material.

    to reinforce a wall.

  2. to strengthen (a military force) with additional personnel, ships, or aircraft.

    to reinforce a garrison.

  3. to strengthen; make more forcible or effective.

    to reinforce efforts.

  4. to augment; increase.

    to reinforce a supply.

  5. Psychology.,  to strengthen the probability of (a response to a given stimulus) by giving or withholding a reward.



noun

  1. something that reinforces.

  2. a metal band on the rear part of the bore of a gun, where the explosion occurs.

reinforce

/ ˌriːɪnˈfɔːs /

verb

  1. to give added strength or support to

  2. to give added emphasis to; stress, support, or increase

    his rudeness reinforced my determination

  3. to give added support to (a military force) by providing more men, supplies, etc

  4. psychol to reward an action or response of (a human or animal) so that it becomes more likely to occur again

“Collins English Dictionary — Complete & Unabridged” 2012 Digital Edition © William Collins Sons & Co. Ltd. 1979, 1986 © HarperCollins Publishers 1998, 2000, 2003, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2009, 2012
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Other Word Forms

  • reinforcer noun
  • self-reinforcing adjective
  • unreinforced adjective
  • reinforcement noun
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Word History and Origins

Origin of reinforce1

First recorded in 1590–1600; re- + inforce, alteration of enforce
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Word History and Origins

Origin of reinforce1

C17: from obsolete renforce , from French renforcer ; see re- + inforce enforce
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Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

In a conflict, America would likely struggle to position, reinforce and resupply its overseas forces.

"This isn't the first study with such alarming results, which only reinforces the need for urgent action to protect children's health," Rocha concludes.

Read more on Science Daily

“We have a narrow window to act — boost stockpiles, issue robust guidance, deploy resources quickly, and reinforce surveillance.”

Read more on Salon

It added: "The organising committee reaffirmed that despite the venue changes, Thailand remains fully committed to delivering an efficient, well-managed and world-class 33rd SEA Games, reinforcing the confidence of all participating nations."

Read more on Barron's

“These developments have reinforced market expectations of a dovish tilt at the Fed,” the senior currency analyst says.

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reinfectreinforced concrete