bolster - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
bolster Word Meanings
- to support or strengthen something
- a cushion or pillow used for support
- to improve or enhance something
bolster Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
bolster Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/ˈbəʊlstə/
US
/ˈboʊlstər/
bolster Word Etymology
bolster = bolster + -er (to support) → Old English bolster → Middle English bolster → Modern English. Imagine a strong, fluffy pillow that supports you as you lie down, providing comfort and strength.
Note 1: These definitions and etymologies are not standard dictionary definitions, but extended explanations provided to help with memorization and understanding of the actual application of words. Through this background information, we strive to make words more vivid and easier to understand, and help you remember their meanings in real life.
Note 2: LexiTalk designs the learning flow around the linguistics principle of “Comprehensible Input.” When learners encounter material that is slightly above their level but still understandable from context, the brain naturally absorbs the language. That’s why we keep every word inside authentic contexts, using examples and associations to help you understand it and use it flexibly.
Read the FAQ explanation of Comprehensible InputReal Context
Bolster is a versatile word that can both mean to support or strengthen something, and refer to a cushion or pillow used for support. As a verb, it suggests adding strength, resources, or encouragement to make something more secure or effective—like bolstering a defense, a case, or a budget. As a noun, a bolster is a long, rounded pillow placed under or behind something for additional comfort or support, such as a back bolster in a chair or a decorative cushion on a sofa. The etymology traces to Old English bolster and the suffix -er, reinforcing its basic idea of support and endurance.
Usage Reminders
- • Remember bolster has both noun and verb uses.
- • Distinguish cushion meaning (physical support) from strengthening meaning (abstract support).
- • Avoid using it for simple boosts unless you mean strengthening something concrete.
- • Note the stress falls on the first syllable: BOl-ster.
- • Pair with contexts like bolster an argument or bolster a chair.
Common Misconceptions
- It is only a noun (a cushion) and never a verb.
- It means a simple 'boost' without a sense of strengthening.
- It always refers to physical objects, not ideas or plans.
- It can be used interchangeably with 'boost' in all contexts.
- Its pronunciation is always with a hard 'g' sound at the end.
Thinking Differences
Explain to an English speaker (meta, keep short)
Learning Tips
- Use bolster for both physical support and abstract strengthening
- Differentiate from boost in contexts of quality or quantity
- Pair with concrete nouns (bolster a chair) or abstract nouns (bolster morale)
- Note noun vs verb forms by syntax
- Listen for collocations: bolster a case, bolster the budget
- Practice with synonyms like reinforce and support
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 1: Meaning
What is the meaning of 'bolster'?
A.Laugh
B.Fail
C.Assist
D.Jump
Step 2: Usage
In which sentence is 'bolster' used correctly?
A.She bolstered at the joke.
B.They laughed the presentation with facts.
C.We jumped the team's spirits.
D.He failed to bolster her with the groceries.
Step 3: Similar Words
Which word is a synonym of 'bolster'?
A.Undermine
B.Weaken
C.Strengthen
D.Dampen
Step 4: Opposite Words
What is the opposite of 'bolster'?
A.Support
B.Hinder
C.Boost
D.Enhance
Step 5: Mastery
How would you use 'bolster' in a real-life scenario?
A.I weakened my friend's confidence before her job interview.
B.I undermined my friend's confidence before her job interview.
C.I laughed at my friend's confidence before her job interview.
D.I bolstered my friend's confidence before her job interview.
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