supporter

[suh-pawr-ter, -pohr-]

noun

1. a person or thing that supports.

2. an adherent, follower, backer, or advocate.

3. a device, usually of elastic cotton webbing, for supporting some part of the body, especially a jockstrap.

4. a garter, especially one attached to a garter belt or girdle.

5. Heraldry.,  either of two human or animal figures flanking and supporting an escutcheon in an achievement of arms.

supporter

/ səˈpɔːtə /

noun

1. a person who or thing that acts as a support

2. a person who backs a sports team, politician, etc

3. a garment or device worn to ease the strain on or restrict the movement of a bodily structure or part

4. heraldry a figure or beast in a coat of arms depicted as holding up the shield

Other Word Forms

• nonsupporter noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of supporter¹

First recorded in 1400–50; late Middle English; support + -er ¹

Example Sentences

Prescott said he wrote the memo "because I am a strong supporter of the BBC".

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If Nancy is appointed as expected he will begin work at Celtic amid tensions between the club and supporters.

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Both had been criticised by supporters following a poor start to the season that led to Russell Martin's dismissal in October after just 17 games as head coach.

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In the aftermath of the heavy defeat in the first Test I have been struck by the genuine anger among supporters.

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The group called on its supporters to attend the mass funeral for its "great leader" Tabatabai which will take place in the southern suburbs, a densely populated area where it holds sway.

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Related Words

• ally 
• defender 
• follower 
• patron 
• proponent 
• support