transitive. To strengthen, fortify, reinforce. In later use chiefly with an argument, example, etc., as object.

To give force or strength to; to strengthen, reinforce; also, to fortify, garrison (a place), to man (fortifications). Obsolete.

transitive. To reinforce, strengthen, redouble. Also reflexive: to exert oneself.

To render more powerful or effective; to strengthen, reinforce with additional resources or co-operation; to garrison (a fortress); to provide…

To make more resistant or fixed. transitive. To make stronger, strengthen (esp. something immaterial); to provide with additional support.

transitive. To make more steadfast, unyielding, or obstinate; Military to increase the fighting value of a force by the admixture of soldiers of…

transitive. To make more effective or powerful by reinforcement of numbers or resources. Also: to increase the price or monetary value of.

transitive. To make tough.

transitive. To impart vigour to; to render vigorous; to fill with life and energy; to strengthen, animate.

Of a (usually immaterial) thing. Frequently with into. transitive. To make (something) more severe, rigorous, or clearly defined; to cause to…

transitive. To sustain or increase (a quality or condition) by fresh action. Now rare.

transitive. To add force or intensity to (speech, arguments, actions, etc.).

transitive. figurative and in extended use: to shelter, protect, or strengthen (something), in the manner of a bastion (bastion, n. 2).

slang. To strengthen; to add vigour, power, or importance to. Const. up (occasionally out). Hence beefed-up (or -out), adj. Cf. beef, n. 2b.