strengthen

/ˈstɹɛŋ(k)θən/

Proposed by a contributor, not yet supported by evidence.

Also seen as: strengthens · strengthening · strengthened

Sense 1

Meaning · English

To make strong or stronger; to add strength to; to increase the strength of; to fortify.

Verb

Examples

strengthen a muscle

Usage example from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-08-01)

Sources & notes

Adapted from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-08-01 via kaikki.org).

Sense 2

Meaning · English

To empower; to give moral strength to; to encourage; to enhearten.

Verb

Examples

Charge Joshua, and encourage him, and strengthen him.

Usage example from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-08-01)

Sources & notes

Adapted from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-08-01 via kaikki.org).

Common questions

What does “strengthen” mean?

To make strong or stronger; to add strength to; to increase the strength of; to fortify.

Is “strengthen” formal or informal?

No register label has been reviewed yet — treat it as neutral and check the usage notes above.